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      Brazil vs Argentina abandoned LIVE: Messi and co fly to Buenos Aires as health chiefs invade pitch to DEPORT Prem stars

      by

      BRAZIL’S World Cup qualifier against Argentina in Sao Paulo has been ABANDONED following astonishing scenes.Health chiefs stormed onto the pitch after just five minutes of play to try and detain Argentina’s four Premier League players – Emiliano Buendia, Emiliano Martinez, Giovani lo Celso and Cristian Romero – who had flown in from the UK on a private jet to play in the game.
      Buendia and Martinez play for Aston Villa, while Lo Celso and Romero feature for Tottenham.
      The Brazil health officials tried to detain the UK-based players because of a Covid-19 breach saying they had to quarantine.
      Under Brazilian rules, visitors who have been in the UK in the 14 days before entering the country must quarantine for 14 days on arrival.

      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 developments below…
      PELE CONCERN
      Football legend Pele has been hospitalised with an undisclosed health problem.
      The 80-year-old is said to not be seriously ill, but has been inside for six days now.
      The Globo news site said Pele was undergoing routine examinations in Sao Paulo’s Albert Einstein Hospital when the undisclosed issue was detected.
      Pele’s business manager Joe Fraga said there was no cause for concern.
      The scare came a few days after Pele was forced to refute reports he had fainted.
      TAPIA TALKS
      The President of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia has also spoken: “What happened today is unfortunate for football, it is a very bad image. 
      “Four people entered to interrupt the game to make a notification and CONMEBOL asked the players to go to the locker room.
      “You cannot talk about any lie here because there is health legislation under which all South American tournaments are played.
      “The health authorities of each country approved protocol that we have been fully complying with.”
      TRAFFIC SHAM
      Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Argentina was suspended after seven minutes because health chiefs had been ‘stuck in TRAFFIC’, according to reports.
      The crunch clash descended into farce just minutes into the match, when officials ran onto the pitch to reprimand a trio of Argentina’s starters.
      Premier League stars Giovani Lo Celso, Cristian Romero and Emi Martinez were the target of Anvisa, Brazil’s health regulatory agency.
      Having been in England within the last 14 days, the trio should have had to quarantine under Brazilian law.
      The three players, as well as Emi Buendia, are alleged to have lied upon entry into Brazil about having been in the UK.
      Brazilian football’s governing body CBF, alongside Conmebol, believed that they had negotiated exemption from Federal Government in order for the game to go ahead with Argentina’s Premier League players available.
      But Anvisa were having none of it.
      According to EiF, Anvisa rejected the exemption, heading straight to the stadium – only to get stuck in notorious Sao Paulo traffic.

      NAUGHTY BOYS
      Tottenham are set to fine their three South American stars who disobeyed orders NOT to return home on international duty.
      The club told Argentina pair Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero, and Colombia defender Davinson Sanchez they were not to travel.
      But the trio ignored their orders and broke Premier League guidelines by going to play in their countries’ World Cup qualifiers.
      And one of those was against Brazil on Sunday, which was halted in incredible fashion in the sixth minute as the Argentine Premier League stars were accused of breaking Covid quarantine rules and falsifying documents to enter Brazil illegally.
      Both Lo Celso and Romero started the game, which was eventually suspended by local health officials who stormed the pitch in Sao Paulo.
      Lo Celso, Romero and Sanchez are now likely to face hefty financial penalties when they eventually return to Spurs from their unauthorised trips – which will see all three have to quarantine and miss up to three matches following their arrivals back in the UK.
      CATCHUP
      If you’ve just tuned in, Brazilian Public Health Officials raided the field to stop play only five minutes into the game between Brazil and Argentina.
      Their reasoning behind this was that four players in the Argentinian squad who play their club football in England, were not permitted to take part in the match due to Covid-19 protocols.
      United Kingdom is on Brazil’s red list so therefore any individual who has been in the UK, travelling to Brazil has to quarantine for a 10-day period at minimum.
      The players who had breached Government guidelines were Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa) Emiliano Buendia (Aston Villa) Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur) Giovanni Lo Celso (Tottenham Hotspur).
      However, the confusion is that the players were given the green light by their respected clubs so everyone is trying to figure out which wires got crossed and why did it happen during the game.
      SCALONI SPEAKS
      Here’s what Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni had to say: “At no time were we notified that they could not play the match. We wanted to play the match the Brazilian footballers too.
      “It should have been a party for everyone to enjoy the best players in the world.
      “I would like the people of Argentina to understand that as a coach, I have to defend my players.
      “It makes me very sad, I am not looking for a culprit. If something happened or did not happen, it was not the time to make that intervention.”
      TAPIA TALKS
      The President of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia has also spoken: “What happened today is unfortunate for football, it is a very bad image. 
      “Four people entered to interrupt the game to make a notification and CONMEBOL asked the players to go to the locker room.
      “You cannot talk about any lie here because there is health legislation under which all South American tournaments are played.
      “The health authorities of each country approved protocol that we have been fully complying with.”
      REVENGE
      Brazil were set to take on Argentina for the first time since the Copa America final defeat.
      But the health authorities had other ideas.

      HOME TIME
      Argentina are on their way home after yesterday’s covid mayhem.

      ATTEMPT TO NOTIFY
      Their was an attempt to notify the players: “There was an attempt to notify the players, who refused to sign the notification delivered by the authorities present at the stadium for immediate return to their country of origin, based on Interministerial Ordinance 655/2021 and art.
      “11 of Law 6.437/1977. The terms were delivered to the Federal Police for appropriate action.
      “The framing of data omission irregularities in the completion of the Traveler’s Health Declaration (DSV) and non-compliance with the quarantine subject each athlete who violated the legislation to the individual Health Violation Notice (AIS): Ordinance 655/2021, RDC 21/2008 and RDC 456/2021.
      “Health and Health Surveillance.”
      RED LIST
      The statement continued: “This Sunday morning (5/9), Anvisa notified the Federal Police and, until the start of the game, made an effort, with police support, to enforce the quarantine measure imposed on players, their immediate segregation and their driving to the airport precinct.
      “Attempts were frustrated, since the departure of the delegation from the hotel, and even for a considerable time before the start of the game, when the Agency had its actions postponed already in the premises of the Itaquera arena.
      “Anvisa’s action, in short, was restricted to seeking compliance with Brazilian laws, which would be limited to the segregation of players and their respective fines.
      “The decision to interrupt the game was never, in this case, within the Agency’s competence.
      “However, the selection of players who did not comply with Brazilian laws and the country’s health regulations, and who still provided false information to the authorities, did indeed require the State Agency to act in a timely and manner, that is, in a timely and effective manner.”
      HEALTH AUTHORITIES
      The statement continued: “By virtue of this communication, still on Saturday afternoon (4/9), the aforementioned meeting took place involving the Ministry of Health, the State Health Department of São Paulo, representatives of Conmebol, CBF and the Argentine delegation.
      “During this meeting, Anvisa, together with the local health authority, determined the quarantine of players.
      “It should be clarified that the players entered Brazil at 8 am on Friday (3/9), providing false information.
      “On the same day, Anvisa identified that the information was false and, still on the night of 3/9, notified the Cievs, updating the health authorities (Ministry of Health and Health Department of São Paulo).
      “This Saturday (4/9), at 5 pm, a meeting was held with the institutions involved, in which the Agency and the São Paulo health authority informed the quarantine contingency.
      “However, even after the meeting and communication from the authorities, the players participated in Saturday night training.”
      WHAT’S BEEN SAID
      Here’s what the health authorities have had to say on the matter: “Since this Saturday afternoon (4/9), Anvisa, in a meeting held with the participation of representatives of the South American Football Confederation (Conmebol), the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and the Argentine delegation, recommended the quarantine of four Argentine players, upon confirmation that the players provided false information and unequivocally failed to comply with Interministerial Ordinance 655, of 2021, which establishes that foreign travelers who have passed, in the last 14 days, in the United Kingdom, South Africa, Northern Ireland and India are banned from entering Brazil.
      “This Sunday morning (5/9), the Agency called the Federal Police so that the measures within the scope of the police authority were taken immediately.
      “In the exercise of its legal mission, Anvisa has pursued, from the outset, compliance with Brazilian legislation, which, in this case, was restricted to the segregation of the four players involved and the adoption of the corresponding sanitary measures.
      “From the moment it became aware of the players’ irregular situation, on the same day the delegation arrived, the Agency communicated the fact to the Brazilian health authorities, through Cievs, the Strategic Information Center on Health Surveillance.”
      MAD FOR IT
      Brazil vs Argentina isn’t the first time South American football has succumbed to craziness with the world watching.
      In 2018, the Boca Juniors coach was attacked when they travelled to River Plate for the second leg of the Copa Libertadores final.
      After the match, Fifa President Gianni Infantino stepped in to move the game to Madrid.
      Though it is a completely different situation this time around, could we see another bidding war between world cities?

      DOUBLE TROUBLE
      One facepalm simply wasn’t enough as Lionel Messi and Neymar couldn’t believe what they were seeing in Sao Paulo.
      The PSG duo will be sure to have a good laugh about it all when the dust settles and they’re back in France next week.

      IN THE FI-K OF IT
      Just as Uefa is not competent to deal with incidents of racism in Hungary during Fifa World Cup qualifiers, so Conmebol – South America’s football association – cannot decide on where we go next with Brazil vs Argentina.
      Argentine FA President Claudio Tapia tweeted: “As president of the AFA I am very sorry for the suspension of what was supposed to be a party for South American football.
      “We have always been guided by the current health legislation in Conmebol.
      “We await the resolution of the disciplinary court of Fifa.”

      RUSH HOUR
      So many have asked why it took until seven minutes into the match for Brazil’s health authorities to prevent it going ahead.
      Well, reports from Sao Paulo incredibly claim that agents of the authority were stuck in traffic…

      TOP FLIGHT
      Argentina have returned to Buenos Aires, so there’s no prospect of the game being replayed in this international break.
      A picture has been released of the players on the plane back from Sao Paulo.
      Emiliano Martinez’s brother says the goalkeeper is set to fly to Croatia on Monday in order to avoid a hotel quarantine when he arrives in the UK ten days afterwards.
      That suggests that he and Buendia and Lo Celso and Romero are set to honour the agreements not to play against Bolivia on Thursday that they’re reported to have with Aston Villa and Spurs respectively.

      GOOD MORNING
      As the Argentina head coach said last night, “It should have been a party” between Brazil and La Albiceleste in their 2022 Qatar World Cup Qualifying match.
      But not even five minutes had gone by before the party was crashed by some unexpected visitors known as the Brazilian public health officials.
      They raided the pitch in search for the four Argentinian players who had “failed to adhere to public health regulations” which caused the game to be abandoned.
      Emiliano Martinez, Emiliano Buendia (both Aston Villa), Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero (both Tottenham) were the four members of the Argentina team who did not follow protocols, according to the public health officials.
      It stems from United Kingdom being on Brazil’s red list which means any individual who enters Brazil from the UK is supposed to go straight into a 10-day isolation period.
      Some wires were crossed along the way because the clubs of the Premier League stars were given the green light to go and represent their countries.
      And both Lionel Scaloni and the president of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia were adamant that they stuck to the letter of the law when involving the four players in their squad.
      But when it was reported that nine Premier League stars were left out of the Brazil squad for the very same reason, it was always going to be an area of concern for Argentina.
      However, the one question which is on everyone in the industries lips is why didn’t the authorities intervene way before the game had kicked off?
      Hopefully we can bring you more updates throughout the course of the day.
      CATCHUP
      If you’ve just tuned in or have been hiding under a rock for the last couple of hours, Brazilian Public Health Officials raided the field to stop play only five minutes into the game.
      Their reasoning behind this was that four players in the Argentinian squad who play their club football in England, were not permitted to take part in the match due to Covid-19 protocols.
      United Kingdom is on Brazil’s red list so therefore any individual who has been in the UK, travelling to Brazil has to quarantine for a 10-day period at minimum.
      The players who had breached Government guidelines were Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa) Emiliano Buendia (Aston Villa) Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur) Giovanni Lo Celso (Tottenham Hotspur).
      However, the confusion is that the players were given the green light by their respected clubs so everyone is trying to figure out which wires got crossed and why did it happen during the game.
      DISCIPLINARY
      The referee and match commissioner has been ordered to submit a report to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee which will determine the steps to be followed.
      These procedures will strictly adhered to all the current regulations.
      UPDATE
      Argentinian officials have been filmed loading boxes of what looks to be the players individual cases of kits and boots into the back of a truck.
      Surely that means the game is completely off?
      Meanwhile, the Brazilian’s are still having their inhouse training session match on the field.
      TAPIA TALKS
      The President of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia has now also spoken.
      What happened today is unfortunate for football, it is a very bad image.
      Four people entered to interrupt the game to make a notification and CONMEBOL asked the players to go to the locker room.
      You cannot talk about any lie here because there is health legislation under which all South American tournaments are played.
      The health authorities of each country approved protocol that we have been fully complying withClaudio Tapia@Argentina
      CONMEBOL CALLING
      CONMEBOL confirming that the game has been suspended but it is still unclear whether the game has been abandoned.
      Por decisión del árbitro del partido, el encuentro organizado por FIFA entre Brasil y Argentina por las Eliminatorias para la Copa del Mundo queda suspendido.— CONMEBOL.com (@CONMEBOL) September 5, 2021

      BRAZIL 0-0 BRAZIL
      WHAT A SAVE!
      Brazil’s training session is quite entertaining I must admit.
      👀 While we wait for an official announcement on the status of the game……Brazil are having a training session (complete with a goalkeeper playing what looks to be centre back)! 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/LkAy8DKNxv— Premier Sports (@PremierSportsTV) September 5, 2021

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    • 225 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Brazil vs Argentina LIVE: Match ABANDONED after health chiefs storm pitch to DEPORT four Prem stars – latest

      by

      BRAZIL’S World Cup qualifier against Argentina in Sao Paulo has been ABANDONED after astonishing scenes.Health chiefs stormed onto the pitch after just five minutes of play to try and detain Argentina’s four Premier League players – Emiliano Buendia, Emiliano Martinez, Giovani lo Celso and Cristian Romero – who had flown in from the UK on a private jet to play in the game.
      Buendia and Martinez play for Aston Villa, while Lo Celso and Romero feature for Tottenham.
      The Brazil health officials tried to detain the UK-based players because of a Covid-19 breach saying they had to quarantine.
      Under Brazilian rules, visitors who have been in the UK in the 14 days before entering the country must quarantine for 14 days on arrival.

      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 developments below…
      CATCHUP
      If you’ve just tuned in or have been hiding under a rock for the last couple of hours, Brazilian Public Health Officials raided the field to stop play only five minutes into the game.
      Their reasoning behind this was that four players in the Argentinian squad who play their club football in England, were not permitted to take part in the match due to Covid-19 protocols.
      United Kingdom is on Brazil’s red list so therefore any individual who has been in the UK, travelling to Brazil has to quarantine for a 10-day period at minimum.
      The players who had breached Government guidelines were Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa) Emiliano Buendia (Aston Villa) Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur) Giovanni Lo Celso (Tottenham Hotspur).
      However, the confusion is that the players were given the green light by their respected clubs so everyone is trying to figure out which wires got crossed and why did it happen during the game.
      DISCIPLINARY
      The referee and match commissioner has been ordered to submit a report to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee which will determine the steps to be followed.
      These procedures will strictly adhered to all the current regulations.
      UPDATE
      Argentinian officials have been filmed loading boxes of what looks to be the players individual cases of kits and boots into the back of a truck.
      Surely that means the game is completely off?
      Meanwhile, the Brazilian’s are still having their inhouse training session match on the field.
      TAPIA TALKS
      The President of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia has now also spoken.
      What happened today is unfortunate for football, it is a very bad image.
      Four people entered to interrupt the game to make a notification and CONMEBOL asked the players to go to the locker room.
      You cannot talk about any lie here because there is health legislation under which all South American tournaments are played.
      The health authorities of each country approved protocol that we have been fully complying withClaudio Tapia@Argentina
      CONMEBOL CALLING
      CONMEBOL confirming that the game has been suspended but it is still unclear whether the game has been abandoned.
      Por decisión del árbitro del partido, el encuentro organizado por FIFA entre Brasil y Argentina por las Eliminatorias para la Copa del Mundo queda suspendido.— CONMEBOL.com (@CONMEBOL) September 5, 2021

      BRAZIL 0-0 BRAZIL
      WHAT A SAVE!
      Brazil’s training session is quite entertaining I must admit.
      👀 While we wait for an official announcement on the status of the game……Brazil are having a training session (complete with a goalkeeper playing what looks to be centre back)! 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/LkAy8DKNxv— Premier Sports (@PremierSportsTV) September 5, 2021

      TRAINING DAY
      Still no official confirmation that the game has been postponed but one thing for certain is that the Brazilian’s are using this time to do a training drill.
      Yes, the Brazil national team are currently on the pitch having a training session.
      SUFFERING SCALONI
      The coach of Argentina has spoken.
      At no time were we notified that they could not play the match. We wanted to play the match the Brazilian footballers too.
      It should have been a party for everyone to enjoy the best players in the world. I would like the people of Argentina to understand that as a coach, I have to defend my players.
      It makes me very sad, I am not looking for a culprit. If something happened or did not happen, it was not the time to make that intervention.
      Lionel Scaloni@Argentina
      THIS GOT MESSI
      The moment Brazilian Public Health Officials storm the pitch to deport four Argentinian players who have been in the country since last week.

      UPDATE ALERT
      I must stress that this is unconfirmed but reports suggest that Brazil are about to conduct a training session because the Argentinian players are preparing to leave the stadium on a coach.
      Like I said, nothing has been confirmed but for all of us getting our hopes up that the game is going to continue, it’s looking highly unlikely.
      POSITIVTE SIGNS
      The Brazilian national team have started warming up again as the talks between officials continue.
      Could the match resume?
      CONFUSED.COM
      If an image could speak a thousand words.
      Nobody has an idea what is going to happen.

      BREAKING NEWS
      Reports are suggesting from the stadium that the traffic regulators are organising for a coach to come and pick up the Argentinian players take them to an unknown destination.
      Nothing official yet but we will soon see if this is true.
      35 MINUTES AND COUNTING
      Players, coaches and fans are still awaiting confirmation on whether the game will continue and it has been more than 35 minutes now.
      The longer this goes on, the more you get the feeling that the match will be called off.
      SUSPENDED
      As the chaos continues to unfold, the Argentinian Twitter account has just tweeted that the game between themselves and Brazil has been suspended.

      WHAT’S NEXT?
      Both Brazil and Argentina are bound to qualify for the 2022 Qatar World Cup because the top four go through and they are both ahead of the pack.
      But if this game was to be postponed, would the points be awarded to Brazil?
      Or would they reschedule this fixture?
      And will there be any repercussions for Argentina despite being given the green light for the players to travel?
      So many questions and so little answers but one thing for certain, we will keep you updated right here on SunSport.
      DEPORTATION
      The Brazilian health officials takeover.

      RECAP
      So the game kicked off and around five minutes into play, the Brazilian health officials came onto the field to address the deportation issue with the Argentinian national team players who are based in England that have travelled to Brazil.
      A couple minutes later, the Argentinian players were ordered to leave the pitch whilst the situation gets sorted.
      This could take some time to resolve but what I don’t understand is why let the game start in the first place?
      The Brazilian players are just standing on the pitch waiting in suspense to see if the game will continue.
      THE GAME HAS CURRENTLY BEEN STOPPED
      BRAZIL 0-0 ARGENTINA
      10. My word you just couldn’t write this.
      The Argentinian players are leaving the pitch because the officials on the pitch are indeed Brazilian health officials who are adamant on deporting the four Argentine players.
      Wow, this is crazy!
      BRAZIL 0-0 ARGENTINA
      8. Hold on a minute!
      The commentator is guessing that the people on the pitch could be the Brazilian health authorities who have something to say about the four Argentina players who had a deportation order before the game.
      BRAZIL 0-0 ARGENTINA
      6. Not even 10 minutes in and the play has been stopped because the guys in the technical area aren’t behaving themselves.
      The referee is under immense pressure at the moment.
      BRAZIL 0-0 ARGENTINA
      3. OOOOFFFF this is what rivalries are all about!
      Lucas Paqueta put in a reckless challenge on Rodrigo De Paul just to let him know what kind of a game this is.
      Thankfully it wasn’t too dangerous but nevertheless it was a definite foul.
      BRAZIL 0-0 ARGENTINA
      1.  Quick update ICYMI
      Brazilian head coach, Tite has to make do without NINE of his players who currently play their club football in England due to the 10-day quarantine rule.
      Alisson (Liverpool) Fabinho (Liverpool), Roberto Firmino (Liverpool), Ederson (Manchester City), Thiago Silva (Chelsea), Fred (Manchester United), Richarlison (Everton) and Raphinha (Leeds) are all the Brazilians who are unable to make Septmeber’s qualifiers.
      Which is why it’s interesting that the Argentinian players who are part of Premier League teams were given the green light.
      BRAZIL 0-0 ARGENTINA
      1. IT’S GO TIME!
      Finally one of the biggest rivalry’s in football kicks off and I hope we witness nothing but wonderful crafted goals tonight.
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      England vs Andorra LIVE: Birthday boy Saka adds fourth as Three Lions run riot at Wembley – stream FREE, TV channel

      by

      ENGLAND will be expecting three more points on their way to Qatar as they host Andorra at Wembley TODAY.The Three Lions will be among the favourites for the World Cup, should they get there, following their near miss against Italy in the Euro 2020 final.

      Kick-off: 5pm BST
      TV/ live stream: ITV/ ITV Hub
      England XI: Johnstone; James, Mings, Coady, Trippier; Bellingham, Henderson, Alexander-Arnold; Lingard, Bamford, Saka
      Andorra XI: Gomes; T Rubio, Llovera, Vales, Garcia, San Nicolas; J Rubio, Rebes, Clemente; M Vieira, Sanchez

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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      GOODNIGHT
      That’s all from us at Wembley after England moved one step closer to next year’s World Cup in Qatar with a straightforward 4-0 victory over Andorra.
      Jesse Lingard and Bukayo Saka were the stars of the show as one made the most of a rare international appearance, and the other went some way to banishing the heartbreak of the summer’s penalty shootout defeat.
      There’s still time to relive the action with Dave Kidd’s match report, hot off the press from the national stadium, but otherwise we’re already beginning to prepare for the final round of matches in this international break.
      So we’ll be back on Wednesday evening for the next round of qualifying games, and it’s the toughest test for Gareth Southgate’s squad so far: a trip to Warsaw to face Poland and Robert Lewandowski. Join us from 6pm for all the build-up.
      SOCIAL SHOWING
      Several England players have wasted no time in taking to social media to express their delight at a second 4-0 victory in the past four days, and another job well done.

      BUKAYO BACK WITH A BANG
      Bukayo Saka returned to the scene of his lowest ebb, and – together with the support of the Wembley crowd – faced his demons. On his 20th birthday, the Arsenal youngster scored one and made one. At full time, he spoke about how the reception of the England fans spurred him on to succeed.
      “It’s the perfect birthday present for me. I’m really glad we got the win and I can celebrate it in this way.
      I’m really happy with the reception everyone gave me. It shows that they’re proud of me and it means a lot. It made me want to give my all.Bukayo SakaITV Sport
      “[The fans] made a real difference for me. It makes me believe that they will support me through thick and thin.”

      JESSE’S GIANT SHOWING
      Jesse Lingard has played just four minutes of club football this season, but showed he still has plenty to offer on the international stage with an eye-catching performance.
      The Manchester United midfielder scored a goal in each half, and laid on another for Bukayo Saka late on.
      Jesse Lingard’s game by numbers vs. Andorra: 89% pass accuracy 79 touches 9 duels won 5 shots 5 fouls won4 crosses 2 chances created 2 tackles 2 shots on target 2 goals 1 assist A superb display. 💪 pic.twitter.com/nOt10c0Tr2— Squawka Football (@Squawka) September 5, 2021

      MAXIMUM SUCCESS
      At the halfway stage in World Cup Qualifying, England are out in front having taken a maximum 15 points from their five games.
      Meanwhile, Albania are temporarily second after an impressive late win against Hungary this evening; Poland play away to San Marino this evening.
      Credit: UEFA.COM
      FULL TIME STATS
      Eighty-eight percent possession, 771 passes and 33 touches in the opposition penalty area, it’s been a dominant performance from Gareth Southgate’s side – and yet still we’re asking for more.

      FT: ENGLAND 4-0 ANDORRA
      England ease to victory in Group I following three late goals at Wembley. Jesse Lingard scored once in each half on his return to the international fold to put the Three Lions in charge, and then set up Bukayo Saka to head in a fourth five minutes from time. Earlier, substitutes Jack Grealish and Mason Mount had combined to win a penalty that another substitute, Harry Kane, converted with aplomb.
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE FULL TIME WHISTLE GOES!
      ENGLAND 4-0 ANDORRA
      90+2. Chus Rubio becomes the sixth Andorra player to be booked, but it feels like a lot, lot more.
      It certainly seems as if Lingard has been chopped down on at least 15 occasions.
      These Andorran players must really hate Manchester United.
      ENGLAND 4-0 ANDORRA
      90. The board goes up to display a further three minutes at the end of the game.
      Is there any more joy for England?
      ENGLAND 4-0 ANDORRA
      88. England are still pushing.
      Lingard is denied his hat-trick by a last-ditch block, and then, a long range Kane effort is tipped away by Gomes’ theatrics.
      From the corner, Mings flashes a header over the bar.
      ENGLAND 4-0 ANDORRA
      87. That earlier booking has been confirmed as being shown to Tyrone Mings, which means the Aston Villa will be suspended for Wednesday’s trip to Poland.
      ENGLAND 4-0 ANDORRA
      85. Redemption for the birthday boy!
      Bukayo Saka has a goal on his 20th birthday, and it is all down to the quick thinking of Trent Alexander-Arnold at a corner – heard that one before?
      The Liverpool man catches the Andorran’s unaware with a quick pass to Jesse Lingard, who is free to move in and cross into the six-yard box for Saka to head into the empty net.
      His smile lights up Wembley, and his emotions are a far cry from those seen in July.

      GOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAALLLL!!BUKAYO SAKA HEADS IN A FOURTH!!
      ENGLAND 3-0 ANDORRA
      83. England could add to the scoreline in these final stages as the contest has really opened up now.
      ENGLAND 3-0 ANDORRA
      82. The yellow card is out, but nobody is sure to who.
      It may be for Grealish, and the midfielder’s failure to retreat at a free-kick.
      ENGLAND 3-0 ANDORRA
      80. Kane! What a miss!
      Lovely play from Grealish on the left, who teases his marker along the touchline before lifting a perfect cross into the unmarked Kane at the far post.
      You’d back the England captain to score this on every single occasion, but he takes his eye off the ball at the vital moment, and the result is a shinner against the post from close range.
      Once again, the offside flag is up to spare blushes, but it was very, very tight.

      ENGLAND 3-0 ANDORRA
      77. And sure enough, there’s the third goal!
      Bukayo Saka darts in off the right flank, uses Jack Grealish by not using him, and sends a pass into the feet of Jesse Lingard.
      The Manchester United man looks up to assess his options, and then moves two paces forward before toe-poking a low shot into the bottom corner from 20 yards.
      Two for Jesse Lingard, three for England, and another win for Gareth Southgate’s men is assured.

      GOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAALLLLL!!JESSE LINGARD AT THE DOUBLE!!
      ENGLAND 2-0 ANDORRA
      74. Into the final quarter of an hour, and you have to wonder whether England will now expose a tired Andorran side that have actually defended very well this evening.
      ENGLAND 2-0 ANDORRA
      72. England have a second, and it means Harry Kane has now scored in 14 consecutive qualifying games.
      It was never in doubt once the England skipper stepped up despite the slow run-up and Andorra goalkeeper Josep Gomes clearly telegraphing which way Kane was intending to shoot.
      Gomes dives the right way – low to his right – but there’s too much power on Kane’s strike and it whistles past the keeper’s outstretched hand to find the bottom corner.
      There was a short delay while VAR checked the initial infringement, but the video officials confirmed they were happy that Christian Garcia’s nudge in the back of Mason Mount following good work from Jack Grealish constituted a penalty.

      GOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLL!!HARRY KANE SCORES FROM THE SPOT!!
      MOUNT GOES DOWN UNDER GARCIA’S CHALLENGE!PENALTY TO ENGLAND!
      ENGLAND 1-0 ANDORRA
      67. Andorra make a change that sees Ricard Fernandez on in place of Aaron Sanchez.
      It’s the most anonymous performance from A Sanchez since Alexis’ Manchester United days.
      ENGLAND 1-0 ANDORRA
      66. Jordi Rubio picks up a yellow card for fouling Saka.
      He’s not the first and he won’t be the last.
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      England vs Andorra LIVE: Stream, score, TV channel, team news, kick-off time – Bamford STARTS World Cup qualifiying tie

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      ENGLAND will be expecting three more points on their way to Qatar as they host Andorra at Wembley TODAY.The Three Lions will be among the favourites for the World Cup, should they get there, following their near miss against Italy in the Euro 2020 final.

      Kick-off: 5pm BST
      TV/ live stream: ITV/ ITV Hub
      England XI: Johnstone; James, Mings, Coady, Trippier; Bellingham, Henderson, Alexander-Arnold; Lingard, Bamford, Saka
      Andorra XI: Gomes; T Rubio, Llovera, Vales, Garcia, San Nicolas; J Rubio, Rebes, Clemente; M Vieira, Sanchez

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      ENGLAND 0-0 ANDORRA
      7. Bellingham bursts forward into the area to latch on to a lofted ball, and, although he slips over, the midfielder regains his balance and composure to weave past one opponent, then a second, and finally a third.
      ENGLAND 0-0 ANDORRA
      5. Saka’s pace causes trouble for Chus Rubio, and the Andorran is tricked into conceding a foul.
      It’s a promising position for Trippier to deliver a dead ball into the area, but his cross in the direction of Bamford at the far post is too long.
      ENGLAND 0-0 ANDORRA
      3. England settle into possession, and begin to dictate the tempo. Expect this to be the pattern of the game.
      There’s an early opportunity for Bamford to showcase his hold-up play but a long ball in his direction bounces off him inside the box.
      ENGLAND 0-0 ANDORRA
      1. Before kick-off, the teams line up in the centre-circle and partake in a minute’s applause in remembrance of three England internationals past – Paul Mariner, Terry Cooper and Doug Holden – who passed away this year.
      Then, on referee Anastasios Papapetrou’s whistle, the players take the knee to loud cheers inside Wembley. England continue to move forward in the right direction.
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!HERE WE GO AT WEMBLEY!
      HERE COME THE TEAMS!
      The final strains of Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline and, subsequently, the summer fade out, and the Wembley crowd welcomes England for a new challenge.
      Following the Greek officials on to the field, Jordan Henderson is back and in the role of captain. The Liverpool man leads a much-changed Three Lions out, followed swiftly by the Andorrans, and the two sets of players line up for the national anthems.
      BUKAYO BOOST
      England are back at Wembley for the first time since their penalty shootout defeat to Italy in the final of the European Championship – and so too is Bukayo Saka.
      The Arsenal youngster missed the decisive kick for the Three Lions in July’s final, but any concerns of a negative reception on his return have been allayed by a warm welcome from the England fans inside the stadium.
      Wembley crowd saves the biggest cheer by far for Bukayo Saka as the England team is read out— Dan Kilpatrick (@Dan_KP) September 5, 2021

      BAM THE MAN
      Birthday box Patrick Bamford has been chatting ahead of his international debut. The striker has revealed that he always felt his chance would come with his country, and is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his Leeds United teammate Kalvin Phillips.
      “It’s probably the best present I could have asked for.
      “I’ve always believed in myself. There were times when I began to doubt it would happen but I kept believing and worked hard so I’m thankful that it’s here.Patrick BamfordITV Sport
      “[Kalvin Phillips is] England player of the year and he’s done fabulous. If I can do half of what he’s done, I”ll be very happy.
      “[The manager has told me] just play my normal game, and to make sure I’m in the box and patient.”
      HOME COMFORTS
      England haven’t lost a home World Cup qualifier since their final game at the old Wembley Stadium, a 1-0 defeat to Germany that ended with Kevin Keegan resigning as manager in the toilets at full time.
      It’s 21 years and 25 qualifiers since that damp and dismal afternoon, and the Three Lions have been busy making up for it. They have won 23 and drawn two of those matches since.
      England have scored 71 goals in that time and have conceded on just 11 occasions.
      Kevin Keegan departs: The England boss leaves the pitch – and the job – after England’s defeat to Germany in October 2000.Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      BIRTHDAY BOYS
      September 5th is a date to remember for Patrick Bamford.
      Not only was the Leeds United born on this day back in 1993, he will now win his first international cap for England on the same date as his 28th birthday.
      The striker has netted 18 goals in 41 appearances since his club were promoted back to the Premier League, and his reward is now the opportunity to lead the line for his country in a World Cup qualifier.
      Let’s hope he has reason to celebrate this evening, which he will be able to do with another forward celebrating a birthday; Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka is 20 today.

      THREE LIONS ON A SHIRT
      And three right-backs in the side.
      Reece James, Kieran Trippier and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all selected for this afternoon’s encounter.

      ANDORRA SUBSTITUTES
      12 Iker, 13 Pires, 2 C Martinez, 5 E Garcia, 6 Lima. 7 X Vieira, 11 Moreno, 16 A Martinez, 17 Cervos, 19 Fernandez, 21 M Garcia, 22 Bernat
      ANDORRA XI
      It’s seven changes for Andorra following the 2-0 home win over San Marino on Thursday. Christian Garcia and Chus Rubio slot into a back five while it’s a completely fresh midfield three; Marc Rebes comes in alongside 35-year-old Ludovic Clemente and 33-year-old Jordi Rubio. There’s even more experience up front as 36-year-old Marcio Vieira wins his 106th cap. He takes the captain’s armband and partner Aaron Sanchez at the top of a 5-3-2 shape.
      1 Gomes; 18 T Rubio, 30 Llovera, 3 Vales, 14 Garcia, 15 San Nicolas; 23 J Rubio, 4 Rebes, 10 Clemente; 8 M Vieira, 9 Sanchez
      ENGLAND SUBSTITUTES
      13 Pope, 22 Pickford, 12 Walker, 14 Shaw, 15 Stones, 16 Maguire, 17 Rice, 18 Phillips, 19 Mount, 20 Kane, 21 Sterling, 22 Grealish
      ENGLAND XI
      Gareth Southgate makes the full 11 changes to his England team for today’s visit from Andorra. Sam Johnstone makes his first competitive start in goal while Patrick Bamford earns his first cap in attack. Three right-backs are included in the line-up although Kieran Trippier will play on the lift while Trent Alexander-Arnold shifts into midfield; Reece James is fortunate enough to remain in his customary role. Captain Jordan Henderson wins his 66th cap in midfield, and he’s likely to sit in the heart of England’s custom 4-3-3 formation.
      1 Johnstone; 2 James, 6 Mings, 5 Coady, 3 Trippier; 7 Bellingham, 8 Henderson, 4 Alexander-Arnold; 10 Lingard, 9 Bamford, 11 Saka

      THE TEAMSHEETS ARE IN!
      SWEET SIXTEEN
      England have won all four of their previous international matches against Andorra by an aggregate scoreline of 16-0 – although today will be the first meeting between the nations since Fabio Capello’s team racked up a 6-0 home win 12 years ago.
      The Andorrans are one of only four international sides that England have faced as many as four times without conceding a single goal. They’re in good company with Estonia, Lithuania and Moldova.

      England 6-0 Andorra (June 2009)
      Andorra 0-2 England (Sept 2008)
      Andorra 0-3 England (March 2007)
      England 5-0 Andorra (Sept 2006)

      THE WEMBLEY WAY
      Good afternoon and welcome to our live coverage of England’s World Cup Qualifier with Andorra.
      Just fifty-six days on from penalty shootout heartbreak in the final of the European Championships, the Three Lions are back at Wembley and back on their pursuit of long-awaited tournament glory.
      And Gareth Southgate’s team have already picked up in this international break where they left off in the summer, impressing on the pitch and displaying defiance in the face of discrimination.
      Thursday’s 4-0 win in Hungary was as notable for how the players reacted after scoring, and it’s a result that has them top of the pile in Group I on a maximum 12 points from their four games so far.
      With a trip to their nearest challengers, Poland, still on this week’s agenda, the England head coach is expected to rotate heavily here.
      That should mean a chance for the likes of Conor Coady, Jude Bellingham and Reece James to impress, and there may even be a first cap for Leeds United forward Patrick Bamford.
      We’re often told that there are no easy games in international football, but a visit from Andorra surely comes close.
      The European minnows have lost 55 of their previous 57 away games in World Cup qualifiers, and still dine out on their stalemate with Macedonia back in 2005, and a more recent draw in Albania two years ago.
      Quite simply, anything other than a comfortable England victory would be a shock so strap yourselves in.
      Confirmation of today’s starting line-ups will be with us shortly ahead of the action that gets underway at the national stadium at 5pm.

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      Mbappe to sign for Real Madrid for FREE, Chelsea continue defender search, Haaland UPDATES – latest transfer news

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      CHELSEA failed to bring in Sevilla’s Jules Kounde before the transfer window slammed shut but will be looking to make moves for a defender in January. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe also failed to get his dream move to Real Madrid, with the Spanish club set to sign him on a free in a pre-contract agreement in the new year.
      Real reportedly offered PSG close to £170m for the French forward’s signature, but the Parisian club failed to budge.
      And clubs all over Europe will now cast their minds onto Erling Haaland, who looks set to leave Borussia Dortmund next summer.
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      NOT FOR ME, THANKS
      Man City reportedly rejected the chance to sign Saul Niguez in a deadline day swap deal which would have seen Bernardo Silva going the other way.
      The Portuguese attacker was linked with a move to Madrid for most of the summer, but as City’s asking price was not met, he will remain at the Etihad this season.
      They could also not be enticed to let him go by the prospect of receiving Saul in return, who instead joined Chelsea in a loan move on deadline day.

      MISSED THEIR MAN
      Chelsea were unable to secure the signing of France defender Jules Kounde after failing to agree a fee with Sevilla before the transfer window slammed shut last week.
      Chelsea had initially offered a fee of around £50m plus now West Ham defender Kurt Zouma, but this was rejected by Sevilla, who demanded a fee closer to £70m.
      The 22-year-old will spent at least another season in LaLiga, but there’s no doubt that if he can replicate the form that made him so in demand this summer, clubs will be back in for him again before long.
      Koundé-Chelsea deal. Sevilla manager Lopetegui: “Koundé didn’t join Chelsea because our Sevilla board decided it was the right thing to do, based on the value of the offers. For me it’s positive – he’ll perform again at top level”, he told to Diario de Sevilla. 🔵 #Sevilla #CFC— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 5, 2021

      PAST MEETS PRESENT
      Ex-Man United striker Romelu Lukaku has responded to comparisons between himself and Ronaldo in humble fashion by stating: “Don’t ever compare me to Cristiano Ronaldo.
      “Cristiano Ronaldo is, for me, in the top three best players in the history of football.
      “I’m not going to rank him from first to third but he’s in there.”
      The two Premier League new boys battled it out in Serie A last season for Inter Milan and Juventus respectively, with Ronaldo winning the golden boot but Lukaku’s Inter winning the Scudetto.
      Both have returned to the Premier League this summer in two of the most high profile transfers of recent years and both of their new clubs will surely be able to bank on them scoring a fair few goals.
      It will be fascinating to watch the two battle it out again for both Chelsea and Man United and see who comes out on top in the Prem.

      OFF ON HOLIDAY
      James Rodriguez has yet to make a single appearance for Everton this season, after a mixed first campaign at Goodison Park last time out.
      The 30-year-old made 23 Premier League appearances for the Toffees last season under Carlo Ancelotti, but new boss Rafa Benitez has shown no sign that the Colombian is part of his plans.
      After failing to offload the World Cup 2014’s top scorer in the summer, Everton may look to use Rodriguez’s obvious talents before he can be sold in January, but it certainly like his days on Merseyside are numbered.

      BETWEEN THE STICKS
      QPR keeper Seny Dieng is reportedly being pursued by Sheffield United, who had a cash influx following the sale of Aaron Ramsdale for around £24.5m to Arsenal.
      Dieng made 42 appearances in the Championship for QPR last season and the 26 year-old Swiss-born Senegal international could command a fee as high as £12m.
      QPR are reluctant to sell to a Championship rival, however, and the move may hinge on the performance of former Everton keeper Robin Olsen, who Sheffield United signed on loan from Roma.

      MANCHESTER VIA FRANCE
      Man United’s French contingent already includes the likes of Paul Pogba, Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial.
      But fans are now clamouring for the signing of Monaco’s exciting young midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, who impressed for France in his international debut against Ukraine alongside Paul Pogba.
      The wonderkid was a vital part of the Monaco team that finished third in Ligue 1 last season, making 36 league appearances.
      The 21-year-old has also been linked with a move to Chelsea, but the London club has since signed Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul on loan with an option to buy, effectively putting them out of the race.
      With Real Madrid also signing Tchouaméni’s international teammate Eduardo Camavinga, United could be in pole position for his signature, should they choose to pursue him in the summer.

      CASH FOR CHIESA
      Federico Chiesa scored a sensational solo goal for Italy against Bulgaria on Thursday, living up to the incredibly high standard of performance he set himself at Euro 2020.
      The young Juventus winger drew plaudits from all over the world for his stellar performances for the Azzurri, leading Chelsea to immediately make an offer for the player, which was vehemently rejected.
      The Blues were willing to pay up to as much as £85m for the 23-year-old wide man, but the Old Lady deem him ‘untouchable’ and were not even prepared to entertain an offer.
      Chiesa is currently halfway through a two-year loan spell at Juve from Fiorentina, who have an obligation to buy him in a deal that could rise to £50m, including the loan fee and add-ons.
      If he continues his fine form into the current season, there is no doubt that clubs will come back in for him next summer and it will be up to Juve whether they choose to cash in on one of their most valuable assets.
      “He’s not just good at it, he’s sensational at it.” 🔥Federico Chiesa gave Italy the lead against Bulgaria with this wonderful run and shot last night…🇮🇹🤩 pic.twitter.com/ORJ76nLeFw— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) September 3, 2021

      NKETI-OUT
      After failing to sell Eddie Nketiah this summer, Arsenal could be set to make a huge loss on the young striker, whose deal expires at the end of this season.
      As such, he’s free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs from January and could end up leaving the Emirates on a free if Arsenal are unable to tie him down to a new deal.
      The Gunners has tried to offload him for around £20m this summer, but with nobody prepared to match their asking price, they retained the young striker.
      Crystal Palace registered serious interest in the player, but after failing to negotiate a deal with Arsenal they instead secured the services of Celtic’s Odsonne Edouard for around £15m.
      It remains to be seen whether Nketiah will be able to force his way into contention at Arsenal, particularly with the emergence of Folarin Balogun in the same position.
      If he can be convinced that he is part of Mikel Arteta’s plans going forward, he may become open to penning a new deal, but as it stands the forward looks set for pastures new and could potentially leave for free.

      RED VERSUS BLUE
      With Chelsea signing Romelu Lukaku, Robert Lewandowski staying at Bayern Munich, Real Madrid targeting Kylian Mbappe and Barcelona in financial disarray, there are only two clubs left in the running for Erling Haaland.
      But the two Manchester clubs will have to deal with Haaland’s agent and fierce negotiator Mino Raiola, who will demand colossal wages for his client, who has scored 63 goals in 64 competitive games for Dortmund.
      Man City’s pursuit of Harry Kane ended in disappointment after they failed to match Tottenham’s asking price of around £150m, meaning that they’ll be in prime position to challenge Man Utd for Haaland next summer.
      The Norweigan will reportedly be available for just £64m, with a release clause getting activated in his contract with Dortmund at the end of the current season.
      But this does not mean the player will come cheap, with the player’s wages set to be the major stumbling block in their attempts to secure his services.

      BETTER CALL SAUL
      Chelsea’s new boy Saul could make his debut at Stamford Bridge this Saturday as the Blues take on Aston Villa in the Premier League.
      The loan man from Atletico Madrid will wear the number 17 shirt, which has previously been worn by Eden Hazard, Pedro, Davide Zappacosta and Mateo Kovacic, among others.
      The 26-year-old made 340 competitive appearances for the LaLiga champions having come through their academy, before making the switch to west London.

      GOOD MORNING FOOTY FANS
      Arsenal transfer target Andre Onana has rejected a new contract offer from Ajax and will leave for free next summer, reports say.
      And reigning Serie A champions Inter Milan are in advanced talks over a potential four-year deal.
      According to Italian journalist Nicolo Schira, Onana has decided to leave Ajax next summer for free.
      The keeper – who has attracted interest from a host of top European clubs including Arsenal – has rejected a contract extension.
      And cash-strapped Inter have decided to make the first move for the goalkeeper, offering the Cameroonian international a four-year contract.
      Wolves are set to offer Adama Traore a £25million golden carrot to sign a new four-year-deal worth a hefty £120,000 a week.
      Credit: AFP
      After more than a year of contract wrangling, the long-standing deal Wolves offered Traore last October remains unsigned as the Spaniard stubbornly refuses to commit his long-term future to the club.
      Now, after rejecting two deadline-day bids from Tottenham – including a £30 million bid to re-unite Traore with his former boss Nuno EspIrito Santo – Wolves are set to dramatically raise the stakes.
      Barcelona are set to meet with RB Leipzig over the possible return of Dani Olmo to the Nou Camp.
      According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan giants want the 23-year-old to return, seven years after his departure for Dinamo Zagreb.
      Barca are happy to wait until next summer to recapture their man.
      Real Madrid remain the standout favourites to sign Kylian Mbappe.
      That’s according to bookmakers Betfair, who’ve priced Carlo Ancelotti’s side at 1/5 to clinch his signature.
      BLUES GO BIG
      Romelu Lukaku’s £97.5million return to Chelsea was a club record transfer.

      RAM’S THE MAN
      Arsenal sporting director Edu has praised summer signing Aaron Ramsdale.
      The 23-year-old England international joined for £30million this summer.
      Edu said: “You see the strategy.
      “For every single name I can explain to you the reasons.
      “Aaron Ramsdale, for example, he is a very good football player and has the potential to be a big part of the team in the future.”
      MO MONEY 
      Mo Salah wants £500k a week to extend his stay at Liverpool, according to reports.
      The Egyptian, 29, only has two years remaining on his current deal.
      And with reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, Jurgen Klopp is said to be anxious about keeping his star, report The Mirror.
      Salah reportedly earns £200,000 a week but is said to be demanding a huge raise, one which would see him earn more than double Virgil van Dijk, the Reds’ current highest earner.
      The centre-back is paid £220,000 a week according to Sportrac, with Thiago also earning the same as Salah.
      The Mirror add that there have been no signs of a forthcoming extension for Salah, despite Liverpool tying down a number of stars to new deals in recent weeks.
      ‘MENTAL RELEASE’
      Ben Davies has said his loan move to Sheffield United away from Liverpool has been a ‘mental release’.
      The 26-year-old joined the Reds in February from Preston North End, but hasn’t played a game.
      And he found himself fifth or sixth in the pecking order.
      On the move away, he said: “I was becoming aware that I was the fifth or sixth choice to play in the centre of the defence for Liverpool. 
      “When I joined Sheffield United, with the promise of playing games, it felt like I had finally been mentally released.
      “I feel that just being around top players has improved me. I feel I’ve grown up.
      “It’s helped me settle in quickly at Sheffield United and hopefully that has shown in the games I’ve played.”
      OLMO RETURN
      Barcelona are set to meet with RB Leipzig over the possible return of Dani Olmo to the Nou Camp.
      According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan giants want the 23-year-old to return, seven years after his departure for Dinamo Zagreb.
      Barca are happy to wait until next summer to recapture their man.
      NA YOU’RE TALKING 
      Arsenal transfer target Andre Onana has rejected a new contract offer from Ajax and will leave for free next summer, reports say.
      And reigning Serie A champions Inter Milan are in advanced talks over a potential four-year deal.
      According to Italian journalist Nicolo Schira, Onana has decided to leave Ajax next summer for free.
      The keeper – who has attracted interest from a host of top European clubs including Arsenal – has rejected a contract extension.
      And cash-strapped Inter have decided to make the first move for the goalkeeper, offering the Cameroonian international a four-year contract.
      Onana, however, hasn’t played a competitive game or trained with Ajax or Cameroon since the start of the year due to being banned  for a doping violation.
      MAN TO MAN
      Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo received a touching message from Brazil legend Pele after his return to Old Trafford, writes KOSTAS LIANOS.
      Ronaldo sealed a blockbuster comeback at United on transfer deadline day following a £21million move from Juventus and looks set to make his debut against Newcastle on September 11.
      Pele was very moved by Ronaldo’s homecoming statement as he knows a lot about home, having spent almost his entire career in Brazil with Santos before rolling credits at New York Cosmos in 1977.
      Although the Portugal international broke the 80-year-old’s record for most goals in official matches back in March, the two men still share a strong friendship.
      Pele said: “There is no better feeling than conquering the world and returning home. Always be happy, Cristiano.”
      EL TIGRE
      Radamel Falcao will return to LaLiga with Rayo Vallecano, joining on a free transfer after leaving Galatasaray.

      HEAD-TO-HEAD
      Cristiano Ronaldo outscored Romelu Lukaku in the Serie A last season.
      The 36-year-old managed to find the back of the net 29 times in just 33 games.
      Lukaku, on the other hand, scored 24 in 36 games.
      The pair will be in the running to win the golden boot in the Premier League this season with Man Utd and Chelsea respectively.

      NET SPEND
      Arsenal’s chiefs backed manager Mikel Arteta this summer.

      PAST IT
      Former Roma midfielder Javier Pastore has joined Elche for free.
      Pastore’s contract was terminated at the Rome-based club in the summer.
      The 32-year-old Argentine joins Elche, who sit 15th in LaLiga.

      EDU DEFENDS SPENDING
      Arsenal’s technical director Edu has defended the spending this summer, highlighting the age of the players bought.
      The Gunners are trying to build a team for the future, and bought six players aged 23 or under this summer.
      He told Sky Sports: “We have to see the wider context than just to see the money around it.
      “We signed six players who are under 23, which means a lot in terms of our planning.
      “It’s a lot, almost a revolution. But how are you going to fill those 21 holes? You need time, you cannot come in and do it straight away.
      “They (new recruits) are young but we have five senior players in the squad and in the first 11… Around those five we have very, very good, talented players which we believe in.”
      BEST LEAGUE IN THE WORLD
      The Premier League’s most valuable squad is Man City’s, which is worth £934.47m.
      City rivals Man Utd are in second on £843.54m.

      RON EFFECT
      Man Utd fans spent a whopping £32.5million on Cristiano Ronaldo shirts in the firstr 12 hours, according to Lovethesales.
      Fans have been rushing to get their hands on the No7 jersey ahead of his highly anticipated second debut against Newcastle new weekend.
      There were large queues outside Man Utd’s club shop.
      United only get seven per cent of the shirt sales, though.
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      F1 Dutch Grand Prix LIVE RESULTS:Max Verstappen WINS home GP to go back to top of championship, Hamilton second

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      THE Dutch Grand Prix is UNDERWAY at a packed Circuit Zandvoort.Max Verstappen has huge support in the busy stands, but Lewis Hamilton is giving chase.

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      PARTY TIME
      It’s no exaggeration to say that the fans are going absolutely wild for Max Verstappen. That’s some reception.
      It’s a sea of orange in the stands and they’re jubilant after a wonderful day of racing on a fantastic track.
      The Dutch GP is definitely one to keep an eye on for next year as well. Wonder whether we’ll look back on today at the end of the season as a defining moment for Max Verstappen…

      UP IN THE POINTS
      An outrageous drive from Sergio Perez who started down in P16 and managed to overtake the likes of Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo to get up to P8 place. A thoroughly good day for Red Bull.
      A special mention also for Fernando Alonso in the Alpine, who started in P9 and drove a superb race to overtake Carlos Sainz in the Ferrari as well as teammate Esteban Ocon to finish P6.
      The 40-year-old shows us again that class is permanent.

      HOME CHAMP
      Incredible scenes as Max Verstappen is crowned the first ever Dutch winner of the Dutch Grand Prix after a 36 year absence from the F1 circuit.
      It was a brilliant drive from the new leader of the Drivers Championship, who did incredibly well to keep Hamilton and Bottas at bay, who both pushed him right until the end.
      There could be no other winner though.

      MAX VERSTAPPEN WINS THE DUTCH GP
      Who else? This was a mega event. A mega crowd and a popular winner.
      The grandstands are lit up with orange smoke bombs.
      Lewis Hamilton is second. Bottas is third.
      Hamilton also gets the point for the fastest lap.
      BOTTAS GETS THE FASTST LAP
      And now Hamilton pits for tyres. Lap 72
      BOTTAS FINAL PITSTOP
      And that was a slow stop. It will allow him a crack at setting the fastest lap and earning a bonus point.
      However, that will crucially take a point away from Hamilton, who currently has the fastest lap. Unless Hamilton stops again.
      LAP 64 HAMILTON’S CHALLENGE HAS FADED
      The Mercedes man has dropped his pace to preserve his tyres. The gap is now up to 4 seconds.
      LAP 55
      Hamilton has been eating into Verstappen’s advantage. He has reduced that gap to 1.3 seconds.
      In doing so, he has taken some life out of his tyres. This might actually put Verstappen under some pressure.

      TSUNODA HAS RETIRED FROM THE RACE
      The Alpha Tauri man is back in the garage and out of this race.

      MAZEPIN IS THE FIRST CAR TO RETIRE FROM THIS RACE
      The Haas man is back in the garage. No real surprise of loss.
      LAP 41 VERSTAPPEN PITS
      Red Bull respond to the threat of the undercut from Hamilton by calling in Verstappen.
      The pitstops is clean and he is back on his way again, three seconds ahead of the Mercedes man.

      LAP 40 HAMILTON PITS
      Another stop for the world champion, who takes another set of medium tyres.
      He returns to the track in second place but almost 25 seconds behind the leader.
      FEW OVERTAKES OF NOTE SO FAR, BUT THIS WAS A GOOD ONE
      Pierre Gasly on Fernando Alonso. I bet they enjoyed watching that down at Honda.

      SEBASTIAN VETTEL SPINS ON THE BANKING
      The Aston Martin man loses the rear of his car and slides to a halt. He’s now down in 17th place.
      PENALTY FOR RUSSELL
      The Brit has been given a five second time penalty for speeding in the pitlane.
      LAP 31 VERSTAPPEN GETS PAST BOTTAS INTO TURN ONE
      The grandstands erupt as the Dutchman regains the lead. The Finn, then surrenders P2 to Hamilton.
      It is Verstappen, Hamilton, Bottas, Leclerc, Sainz – the two Ferraris are yet to pit.
      LAP 30 BOTTAS IS BACKING VERSTAPPEN INTO HAMILTON
      The Finn is helping out tactically here as Verstappen has become the jam in a Mercedes sandwich.
      LAP 22 VERSTAPPEN PITS
      The Red Bull team respond to Hamilton’s pitstops by calling him in a lap later.
      The pitstop was a second-quicker to increase the Dutchman’s lead in this race.
      Valtteri Bottas, who has yet to pit, is the new race leader.
      LAP 22/72Verstappen and Hamilton pit from P1 and P2 respectively Verstappen emerges in P2, 10 seconds behind Bottas (P1)Hamilton in P3, three seconds further backBottas has not stopped yet #DutchGP 🇳🇱 #F1 pic.twitter.com/Mkta2tXMHz— Formula 1 (@F1) September 5, 2021

      HAMILTON REPORTING TYRE PROBLEMS
      Lap 21 Hamilton comes in for some fresh tyres. He’s gone for a set of medium tyres in the hope of reaching the end of the race.
      SO FAR, NO RED FLAGS
      I will admit, I’d almost guaranteed there would be at least one red flag so far, judging by the support races.
      But this GP has been incident free. Already on lap 19/72. It is whizzing by.
      1,000 LAPS
      Max Verstappen has now lead 1,000 laps in Formula One.
      MAX IS PULLING AWAY
      The Red Bull man is trying to get out of the way of a Hamilton fight back. If he builds a gap it will make life easier on his team when it comes to deciding when to pit him for tyres.

      NEAR MISS FOR GIOVINAZZI
      The Alfa Romeo man is in he thick of the action and almost clatters into Carlos Sainz and then Fernando Alonso.
      PROBLEMS FOR RICCIARDO?
      His McLaren is pumping out blue smoke and George Russell is travelling behind and says the Aussie is leaking oil.
      Now, it could be a little bit of oil overfill burning off, or maybe there is a bigger issue.
      LIGHTS OUT – WE ARE GO
      A great start from Verstappen who is already a two car lengths clear of Hamilton into Turn One.
      He absolutely nailed that start. The Red Bull man is flying as Hamilton came under attack from teammate Valtteri Bottas.
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      in Boxing

      Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara 2 LIVE RESULTS: Fight STOPPED as NO CONTEST draw after Lara huge cut under eye – latest

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      JOSH WARRINGTON’s rematch against Mauricio Lara was STOPPED as a technical draw after Lara’s cut saw the fight end in a no contest.A nasty clash of heads in the second round meant the fight ended in a frustrating draw in front of Warrington’s home crowd in Leeds.
      Eddie Hearn said after he will try and get Warrington out again as soon as possible, with Lara’s eye cut set to keep the Mexican on the sidelines.
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      Follow ALL of the latest reaction below…

      WARRINGTON GUTTED
      Josh Warrington is gutted with how the fight ended, especially for the fans who paid to see him get redemption.
      He told DAZN: “All these people wanted to see me get redemption tonight.
      “I thought I opened him up with a punch in the first round, but a clash of styles, my head hit him.
      “I’m absolutely gutted.”
      Are we heading for a third fight?
      THE FIGHT IS WAVED OFF!
      The cut above Lara’s left eye is HUGE!
      Unbelievable…. both fighters are extremely disappointed with the way the fight has ended.
      Technical draw.
      WARRINGTON VS LARA
      Round 2.
      Lara tries steps in and looks to catch Warrington with a left hook, followed by a right.
      But Warrington is one step ahead and dodges everything Lara throws at him.
      So far so good for the Brit.
      Lara gives it a good go and throws a series of punches.
      There’s a slight clash of heads and there’s a cut just about Lara’s left eye.
      Horrible cut.
      The medical team will try and clean him up in time for round three.
      WARRINGTON VS LARA
      Round 1.
      HERE WE GO!
      It’s rematch time. Warrington vs Lara 2.
      Terrific start by Warrington as he lands a right hand.
      Warrington is in good shape, he’s laser-focussed and has the crowd backing his corner.
      The Brit lands a nice right look at the end of the round.
      Headingley is ROCKING.
      WARRINGTON UP NEXT
      The main even is up next. Josh Warrington vs Mauricio Lara 2.
      The 30-year-old is looking to exact revenge on Lara for the loss in the first bout – his first of his career at Wembley Arena back in February.
      Headingley is absolutely buzzing…… one of Leeds’ own is about to make his way to the ring!
      Lara makes his way to the ring shortly after.
      Buffer is in position. Let’s do this!
      TAYLOR DEF. HAN
      AND STILL THE UNDISPUTED LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION!
      Katie Taylor wins by unanimous decision.
      The Bray-born 35-year-old defends her lightweight gold in convincing fashion. Easy as you like.
      Who’s next?
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 10.
      Han is giving it a good go in the tenth and final round, but she simply hasn’t done enough to win the fight.
      To the judges scorecards.

      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 9.
      Taylor very much in control, Han hasn’t really got at the Irish undisputed champion.
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 8.
      Taylor lands a lovely right hook.
      She keeps up the pressure, gets tight to Han and lands a right hook to her opponent.
      Han takes a tumble.
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 7.
      Han needs to get on the inside more otherwise she doesn’t stand a chance winning rounds.
      Just three to go.
      Taylor lands a lovely combination.
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 6.
      Not much in the round, a lot of grappling, slowing the pace of the fight down.
      Taylor’s movement is proving hard to keep up with as Han misses a right hook.
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 5.
      Not much in the round, a lot of grappling to catch a break.
      Taylor steps in and lands a right hook, and immediately bounces backwards to evade a left from Han.
      This could go the distance by the looks of it.
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 4.
      Taylor lands a nice one-two in the middle of the round, but Han lands a slick counter punch.
      The Irish fighter lets Han get up close, and she lands two good shots.
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 3.
      Taylor steps in and catches Han with a right hook but it doesn’t cause Han a problem.
      The Irish fighter is starting to find some openings.
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 2.
      Taylor again looking to stay on the frontfoot, and when you’re defending your titles you need to be!
      Han is still landing shots of her own, trying to be smart and pick her moments.
      Round 3 it is.
      TAYLOR VS HAN
      Round 1…… HERE WE GO!
      Good opening round from Taylor as she looks to land some nice head shots.
      Han, however, holds her own to see out the round.
      Taylor is on the frontfoot, very much the aggressor.
      Han’s movement is good and she’s managing to evade a lot of punches.
      The crowd are very much into this.
      TAYLOR UP NEXT
      Katie Taylor is up next and she’s facing Jennifer Han.
      Taylor is looking to defend her undisputed lightweight title at Headingley Stadium.
      BENN DEF. GRENADOS
      Benn defeats Grenados on points – 100-90, 99-91 and 97-93.
      More experience for the 24-year-old.
      BENN VS GRENADOS
      Round 10.
      Benn is trying to finish the fight in the tenth and final round, but Grenados is making it difficult.
      The Brit is currently up against the ropes, taking on some body shots, but he manages to push his opponent way.
      With 20 seconds to go, Grenados lands a clean shot to Benn, but Benn lands a right hook of his own.
      The pair showboat in the middle of the ring just before the bell goes.
      To the judges scorecards.
      BENN VS GRENADOS
      Round 9.
      Benn is landing some powerful straight rights.
      But opponent Granados is moving well to try and avoid being hit.
      Granados is trying to catch Benn out, tagging him to the body.
      BENN VS GRENADOS
      Round 8.
      Greenwich-born Benn has Granados backed up against the ropes and is landing some nice body shots.
      The Brit is on the front foot, on the offensive.
      BENN VS GRENADOS
      Round 7.
      Granados comes out fighting, but he’s knocked down by Benn.
      It has been a spirited performance by Granados, who’s doing his best to back Benn up against the ropes.
      Benn, 24, gets himself out of trouble easily, though.
      BENN VS GRENADOS
      Round 6.
      At this point it’s about staying alive for Granados, Benn is in complete control.
      Benn backs his opponent up against the ropes, lands a body shot before connecting with a left hook.
      Round 7 it is.
      BENN VS GRENADOS
      Round 5.
      Still all Benn, he has landed three-times more power punches than Granados.
      One-way traffic thus far.
      BENN VS GRENADOS
      Round 4.
      Slower round there but Benn again the aggresor.
      Benn working smartly with some cracking bodyshots.
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    • 288 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Soccer Aid 2021 LIVE REACTION – England 0-3 World XI: Lee Mack FINALLY gets his goal after Kem double – latest updates

      by

      THE WORLD XI dominated England 3-0 as they ran out winners of Soccer Aid.Kem Cetinay netted twice before Lee Mack FINALLY got his goal at the annual Unicef mega-match!
      All for a good cause, Soccer Aid has raised over £60million for Unicef since its inception in 2006 with a record-breaking £13m raised this year.
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      Follow ALL of the latest reaction from the Etihad below…
      FT: ENGLAND 0-3 WORLD XI
      Well, it wasn’t an instant classic, but Kem Cetinay’s predatory instincts in front of goal, combined with Joel Dommett’s inability to guard a net, ultimately landed the World XI a comfortable 3-0 win.
      More importantly, however, over £13million was raised in aid of Unicef, plus we got to see Tom Grennan go head to head with Wayne Rooney and Jamie Carragher and arguably win on both counts.

      Dermot Kennedy and Martin Compston deserve special mentions for their performances for the World XI, plus Mark Wright and James Bay probably didn’t deserve to be on the losing side with England.
      Lee Mack will steal the headlines after defecting to the World XI having missed penalties in three consecutive shootouts for England to seal the victory for the visitors.

      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPPP!!!!!!!
      FULL-TIME
      ENGLAND 0-3 WORLD XI
      Mark Clattenburg blows his whistle and it’s all over. 3-0 to the World XI and it’s Lee Mack who scores the final goal in arguably football’s greatest ever redemption story.
      Heartbreak again for England.

      GOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLL!
      ENGLAND 0-3 WORLD XI
      BUT HE DOESN’T MISS THIS TIME!
      ENGLAND ALL OVER THE PLACE AT THE BACK AND DARREN FLETCHER AND CHELCEE GRIMES COMBINE TO SLICE THROUGH THEM AND WHO ELSE BUT LEE MACK BURIES IT AT THE BACK POST.
      THE WORLD XI GO WILD.
      GAME OVER.

      ENGLAND 0-2 WORLD XI
      86 – CHANCE! Lee Mack has two chances in quick succession from almost identical positions inside the box to the left of the goal and Dommett does well to make himself big on both occasions.
      He sends it wide both times.
      ENGLAND 0-2 WORLD XI
      83 – Mark Wright cuts a frustrated figure at the back. He’s wearing the armband, but hasn’t been able to stop Kem from putting two in the back of the England net.
      ENGLAND 0-2 WORLD XI
      80 – Chunkz has been isolated up front and has had no real service from his team.
      Rooney finds himself almost one on one and you’d have put your mortgage on him scoring but he sends it way over the bar.
      Robbie Williams can’t believe it.

      ENGLAND 0-2 WORLD XI
      79 – The tactic for the World XI now appears to pretty much be to shoot whenever you get the ball.
      Unless you’re Lee Mack.
      ENGLAND 0-2 WORLD XI
      77 – England are trying to build an attack with Wayne Rooney and Joe Cole trying to make things happen, but Nigel De Jong has played well in midfield to stop them.
      The World XI win it back and Kem’s almost played completely through on goal, but Jamie Carragher brings him down cynically.
      No card from Mark Clattenburg, but it wasn’t pretty.
      ENGLAND 0-2 WORLD XI
      75 – It looks like it’s going to be three wins in a row for the World XI. England are running out of ideas here.
      Kem’s really in the mood for it now and is giving Jamie Carragher all kinds of grief.
      GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLL!!!!!
      ENGLAND 0-2 WORLD XI
      It’s Kem Cetinay who nestles a lovely finish into the bottom corner from the right hand side. Not much Joel Dommett could have done about that.
      He should have been MILES offside, but James Bay was nowhere near the rest of his defensive line and played Kem onside.
      Gutting for England.

      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      70 – Rooney does well in midfield to keep the ball and sprays a lovely pass out wide to Max Whitlock, whose touch lets him down and it goes out for a throw.
      Rooney does the same with Aitch just a few seconds later as he tries to play the rapper through, but his touch also lets him down.
      Come on celebs, you can do better than that. It’s only Wayne Rooney, after all…

      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      68 – ENGLAND SUBSTITUTIONS:
      OFF: Fara Williams, Paul Scholes.
      ON: Kelly Smith, Jamie Redknapp.
      WORLD XI SUBSTITUTION:
      OFF: Pablo Zabaleta.
      ON: Ingrid Moe Wold.
      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      65 – What are the rules again? Aitch finds himself coming back on less than five minutes after coming off following Mo Farah’s injury.
      England’s corner is well delivered and Rooney heads it towards goal but it’s well saved.

      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      63 – Scholes puts a good pass in to release James Bay on the right wing, whose cross is blocked and it goes out for a corner.
      Play is delayed as it looks like Mo Farah’s going to have to come off and England look like they’re not sure who’s going to replace him…
      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      60 – CHANCE! Robbie Keane puts a great ball into Kem and Mark Wright puts in a great challenge to stop him hitting the target.
      England make another substitution with Aitch coming off for Olympic gold medallist Max Whitlock. Team GB’s most decorated gymnast ever. Not a bad title, is it?

      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      59 – Kem finds himself in the penalty area on the right hand side but he’s well met by Jamie Carragher, who puts in a decent tackle. Looks like he leaves a little bit on Kem there though… he goes unpunished by the ref.
      Carra’s taking this very seriously, as you might expect.

      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      56 – Yungblud has come off for the World XI, meanwhile Nigel De Jong has come on alongside Martin Compston and Darren Fletcher.
      I’m not even sure it’s still 11 vs 11 anymore.
      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      54 – If you hadn’t noticed already, there’s been a LOT of substitutions at half-time. We’ll try to give you as many of them as we can, but honestly it’s hard to keep up.
      We can confirm, however, that Chunkz has just come on for James Arthur for England.
      Lee Mack has also just come on for Tom Grennan.

      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      52 – Dommett makes a real save (a real life, actual save…) Presumably, someone’s just told him you can use your hands in goal.
      Robbie Keane finds himself in space on the left wing going towards goal and Rooney makes a wonderful tackle.
      Class is permanent.
      GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLL!
      ENGLAND 0-1 WORLD XI
      Kem unleashes a very weak effort from just outside the box with his left foot and realistically, a small child should keep that out.
      Joel Dommett, however, completely misses it. He boots the air and the ball ends up in the back of the net. A disaster for the substitute.
      A goal for the World XI and Dommett looks a right dummy.

      ENGLAND 0-0 WORLD XI
      48 – POST! Nigel De Jong sends in what seems to be a cross from wide left and it goes past everyone and hits the post.
      Joel Dommett is in no-man’s land. The man was not born to be a goalkeeper, that much is fact.
      ENGLAND 0-0 WORLD XI
      46 – Stephen Mulhern (still wearing the ‘Masked Winger’s costume) has just clattered Darren Fletcher.
      This has all gone a little bit panto, but that’s fine. It’s for charity!

      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPPP!!!!!
      WE’RE BACK UNDERWAY HERE AT THE ETIHAD AND STEPHEN MULHERN GETS US GOING
      ENGLAND 0-0 WORLD XI
      ENGLAND 0-0 WORLD XI
      HALF TIME
      The ‘Masked Winger’ has just been revealed and it’s Stephen Mulhern.
      ‘Let down’ would be harsh, but…
      ENGLAND 0-0 WORLD XI
      HALF TIME
      Actor David Harewood, who has previously played for England in Soccer Aid, just gave a stirring speech about the importance of the work Unicef does to help children around the world.
      Wonderful that an event like this is so much more than a football match and is making a real difference to those who need it most. Well done to everyone getting involved and donating.
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