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      in Soccer

      Brazil 1 Peru 0 RESULT: Neymar’s brilliant assist for Lucas Paqueta’s winner leads Selecao to Copa America Final

      by

      BRAZIL made it to the Copa America Final after beating Peru at the Olympic Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.The Selecao advanced thanks to Lucas Paqueta’s winner, which wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for Neymar’s incredible assist.
      Relive all the exciting action below:
      THAT’S ALL FROM RIO!
      A brilliant assist by Neymar led Brazil to their second consecutive Copa America Final after a 1-0 victory over Peru at the Olympic Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
      The Paris Saint-Germain superstar dribbled past three defenders down the left before setting up Lucas Paqueta, who scored the winner for the second time in a row after his heroics against Paraguay in the quarter-finals.
      Tite’s men dominated in the first half as they missed some unbelievable chances to score more goals.
      It all started just after eight minutes when Paqueta delivered a beautiful through ball and found Richarlison inside the penalty area.
      The Everton star dribbled past Pedro Gallese but found himself at a tight angle and thus passed the ball back to Neymar, who shot it wide.
      Gallese enjoyed a brilliant first half that saw him making an unbelievable triple save on 19 minutes.
      The Blanquirroja captain denied a long-range shot by Casemiro as well as two efforts from Neymar as well as Richarlison from close distance.
      But the Orlando City shot-stopper couldn’t maintain a clean sheet as Neymar dribbled past Alexander Callens, Christian Ramos AND Aldo Corzo before setting up Paqueta in the penalty area just 10 minutes before half-time.
      Peru came back stronger in the second half when manager Ricardo Gareca introduced Raziel Garcia and Marcos Lopez.
      Gianluca Lapadula recorded the Blanquirroja’s first shot on target with a powerful left-footed effort that forced a difficult save from Ederson after 50 minutes.
      Peru’s biggest chance, though, occurred on 82 minutes when Callens got a header from a free-kick and almost hit Ederson’s bottom left corner.
      Brazil are now set to compete in the final this Sunday at the historic Maracana Stadium against the winner of the other semi-final encounter between Argentina and Colombia.
      The two nations face off in the early hours of Wednesday and the loser will take on Peru in the third-place play-off on Saturday.
      Thank you for following the action with us, have a lovely night!
      GETTY IMAGES
      STATS
      Brazil dominated 56 per cent of possession throughout the semi-final encounter.
      The Selecao recorded a total of 15 shots, with a whopping eight of them being on target.
      Peru registered seven shots, but only two of them were on target and they all occurred during the second half.
      Brazil will compete in the final on Sunday and will face the winner of the other semi-final between Argentina and Colombia – Peru will face the loser of that encounter in the third-place play-off
      FT: BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      Brazil made it to the Copa America Final for the second time in a row after beating Peru at the Olympic Stadium in Rio.
      The Selecao made it through thanks to Lucas Paqueta’s winner after 35 minutes.
      Tite’s men broke the deadlock when Neymar dribbled past three Peru defenders – Alexander Callens, Christian Ramos AND Aldo Corzo – before passing back to Paqueta, who found the back of the net with a fine finish.
      Brazil dominated in the first half as they missed some unbelievable chances to score more goals.
      Paqueta delivered a beautiful through ball and found Richarlison inside the penalty area on eight minutes
      The Everton star dribbled past a brilliant Pedro Gallese but found himself at a tight angle and thus passed the ball back to Neymar, who shot it wide.
      Then Gallese made a triple save to deny a long-range shot from Casemiro as well as two efforts from Neymar as well as Richarlison from close distance after 19 minutes.
      Peru came back stronger in the second half when manager Ricardo Gareca introduced Raziel Garcia and Marcos Lopez.
      Gianluca Lapadula recorded the Blanquirroja’s first shot on target with a powerful left-footed effort that forced a difficult save from Ederson after 50 minutes.
      Peru’s biggest chance, though, occurred after 82 minutes when Alexander Callens got a header from a free-kick and almost hit Ederson’s bottom left corner
      GETTY IMAGES
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      THAT’S FULL-TIME IN RIO!!!!!!
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      90+3 Peru’s attack comes to an end after the referee claims Lapadula elbows Militao.
      Very soft decision as the Brazilian seem to be slightly overreacting…
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      90+2 SUBSTITUTION
      Brazil manager Tite seems to be making a necessary change as Paqueta is hurting.
      The midfielder is replaced by Luiz
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      90 Five more minutes of added time to go until full-time.
      Paqueta is still on the ground after the rough tackle by Lopez
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      90 YELLOW CARD
      Peru ace Lopez gets booked for a dangerous tackle on Paqueta, who’s probably trying to save as much time as possible on the ground
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      89 SUBSTITUTION
      Peru manager Careva makes one more change as Tavara replaces Tapia
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      88 YELLOW CARD
      Vinicius becomes the first Brazilian player to be booked for a late challenge on Lora
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      88 Brazil are dominating possession and tempo in the last few minutes of the match.
      Neymar has been stunning as he gets a lot of the ball and earns plenty of free-kicks.
      Peru are struggling to create any attacks
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      85 SUBSTITUTION
      Brazil manager Tite makes a triple change for the last five minutes of the match.
      Vinicius comes on for Richarlison, Fabinho replaces Fred and Militao takes Lodi’s place
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      82 WHAT A CHANCE!
      Peru come extremely close to an equaliser, Brazil are quite lucky!
      A free-kick is whipped in from the left and Callens gets a header after a poor exit by Ederson but the ball just misses the Manchester City star’s bottom left corner
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      81 SUBSTITUTION
      Another change for Peru as Ormeno replaces Cueva for the last few minutes
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      80 Brazil star Neymar hasn’t been able to give his team that extra edge so far in the second half.
      But it is thanks to the PSG superstar that the Selecao are ahead
      GETTY IMAGES
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      78 As time goes by Brazil’s lead is becoming increasingly fragile.
      The Selecao need to remain concentrated as literally anything can happen on the lottery we call a penalty shoot-out
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      75 SUBSTITUTION
      Peru manager Gareca makes another switch as Lora replaces Corzo
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      75 Just a quick reminder, if Peru equalise then the game will go straight to penalties.
      Only the final gets extra-time if the two teams are tied after full-time
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      73 Brazil are still quite comfortable on the pitch but Peru have drastically improved in the second half.
      The Selecao are still the favourites to go through, but it could easily be taken away from them if they’re not careful
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      71 PENALTY SHOUT
      Brazil star Richarlison gets a lovely ball by Neymar and goes down inside the area following a push by Gorzo.
      However, the referee waives play on and VAR aren’t intervening
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      70 SUBSTITUTION
      Brazil manager Tite makes his first change as Ribeiro replaces Everton.
      An Everton comes in for another Everton, and none of them play for the Toffees
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      70 Peru ace Santamaria gets lucky there as he avoids a blatant yellow card.
      The defender takes down Neymar with a late challenge and doesn’t get booked even though the referee halts the game…
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      67 Check out some of the best highlights of the first half.
      That includes Neymar’s brilliant assist, Paqueta’s opener and Gallese’s triple save:

      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      65 CHANCE
      Brazil show their presence with a shot from Neymar inside the area that goes wide!
      BRAZIL 1-0 PERU
      64 Richarlison goes down inside Peru’s area following achallenge with Tapia.
      But the referee has none of it!
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Euro 2020 LIVE: England prepare for Denmark semi-final, Italy vs Spain build-up as Spinazzola ruled out – latest updates

      by

      EURO 2020 has reached the semi-final stage – and England are there! The Three Lions stormed into the semis on Saturday, crashing FOUR past Ukraine to set up a showdown with Denmark at Wembley.
      And fans across the country went wild, with millions celebrating in the streets.
      But in a bizarre incident, West Ham’s Andriy Yarmolenko was seen preventing team-mate Roman Yaremchuk from shaking hands with Harry Maguire.
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      EVRA JIBE
      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Patrice Evra has been entertaining fans on social media by singing into some fish and chips.
      The hilarious ex-footballer was dressed as one of the Gallagher brothers and joked dinosaurs were alive the last time England won a major trophy.
      The 40-year-old posted a video on Twitter of him singing to support England ahead of their Euro 2020 semi-final against Denmark.
      Evra was part of the French squad that lost the Euro 2016 final to Portugal but is an England fan after spending nine seasons at United and West Ham.
      The video starts with Evra wearing an Oasis-style wig and sunglasses, similar to what he wore to troll Liam Gallagher and Manchester City after their Champions League final defeat to Chelsea in May.
      Evra has been taunting England about the last time they won a trophy

      CORD SUPPORT
      Declan Rice has revealed that he’s been face-timing with comedian James Corden after England’s Euro 2020 matches.
      The midfielder explained that in their chats, Corden has made him realise the powerful impact the Three Lions pursuit of the European trophy is having on the country.
      While speaking to the Official England Podcast, Rice said: “Since the Scotland game I speak to James Corden quite a bit, we FaceTime each other.
      “James Corden said to me, ‘do you actually understand what you are doing?”
      But the West Ham ace admitted that he actually hasn’t felt the impact yet and probably won’t until he’s career’s over.
      He added: “It has not hit me yet and even when the tournament has finished it probably won’t hit me until my career finishes.”
      Rice admits England’s triumphant Euro 2020 campaign up to this point hasn’t sunk in yetCredit: AFP
      YAR HAVING A LAUGH
      This is the bizarre moment Ukraine captain Andriy Yarmolenko refused to let team-mate Roman Yaremchuk shake hands with Harry Maguire.
      The West Ham ace intervened as Yaremchuk offered Maguire his hand and made it impossible for him to help the England ace back to his feet.
      Maguire was sat on the floor as Yaremchuk offered to help him up.
      The Manchester United centre-back moved his hand away as the pair exchanged words.
      Yaremchuk tried again but as Maguire went to take the hand on offer, Yarmolenko stepped in.

      COP A LOAD OF THIS
      England’s Euro 2020 semi-final clash against Denmark will be refereed by a part-time armed policeman.
      And Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate already has history with man of authority Danny Makkelie, who was in charge for the last-16 win against Germany.
      The Dutch official was in charge when Southgate, in his role as England U21 boss, lost their first game in the 2015 Euros against Portugal.
      But it is his profession off the pitch that tells you that Makkelie will stand for no nonsense on it. As he progressed up the refereeing ladder, the 38-year-old was allowed to go part-time for the police in Rotterdam.
      He describes how being an officer is for ‘the heart’ while trotting out onto the football pitch is his ‘passion’.
      But Makkelie sees similarities between the two jobs and believes police work has been invaluable to him becoming a successful ref.
      Credit: Reuters
      Credit: Instagram
      IT’S COMING ROME
      England are only SECOND-favourites to win Euro 2020, according to a supercomputer.
      The Three Lions booked a date with Denmark at Wembley in Wednesday night’s second semi-final after thumping Ukraine 4-0.
      Despite the impressive performance in Rome, England aren’t yet favourites to lift the trophy come Sunday.
      Thanks to their 100 per cent record, the supercomputer has given the Italians a 39.8 per cent chance of winning the tournament.
      England come in second-favourites having won all but one match – the 0-0 group stage draw with Scotland – with a 29.4 per cent shot.
      Spain rank third with a 22.4 per cent chance of going all the way, with Denmark the outsiders with a mere 8.4 per cent shot.

      TIME TO CELEBRATE
      UK sports are set to welcome back full crowds this summer WITHOUT the need for vaccine passports, according to reports.
      The PM will announce plans to end lockdown restrictions on July 19 in a press conference this evening. And part of that is expected to permit capacity crowds inside stadiums from that date onwards.
      However, unlike in recent pilot events, The Times reports spectators will NOT need to show evidence of a double Covid-19 vaccination – unless the pandemic problems significantly worsen.
      The British Grand Prix, on July 18, has already been confirmed as another test so will have 140,000 people at Silverstone on race day.
      But other fixtures such as the Goodwood races at the end of July and England’s Test cricket series against India which starts on August 4 should see full stands.
      And football clubs across the pyramid, including in the Premier League and EFL, will follow suit when the new 2021-22 season gets underway next month. However, should England win Euro 2020, a public celebration or parade would not take place until after July 19.
      Credit: Reuters
      DANE DISMAY
      Two of England’s Euro 2020 stars were sent off last time they played Denmark – as the Three Lions suffered a shock defeat at Wembley.
      Gareth Southgate will be desperate there is no repeat of October 2020’s Nations League result on Wednesday.
      The Three Lions take on the Danes at Wembley in the semi-final. But their previous clash did not go according to plan. Harry Maguire picked up a yellow card inside five minutes for a late challenge.
      And then on 30 minutes, he overstretched after a heavy touch and earned a second yellow to get sent off. England started with a back three but Maguire’s early dismissal meant left wing-back Ainsley Maitland-Niles was sacrificed for Tyrone Mings.
      Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips – who have shone together at the Euros this summer – partnered each other in midfield with Reece James and Maitland-Niles offering width.
      Harry Kane led the line, supported by Mason Mount and Marcus Rashford.

      ROME ROW – EXCLUSIVE
      Sol Campbell confronted a coward who called him a ‘Judas c***’ in Rome before England’s win over Ukraine.
      The spineless yob was filming the former Arsenal and Tottenham centre-back as he left a restaurant on Saturday lunch time and also yelled: “Jelly and ice cream when you go.”
      The video was posted on Twitter but what can’t be seen in the footage is the female companion sitting with the abuser who SunSport understands looked ‘mortified’ by his actions.
      SunSport also understands the man – believed to be in his early 30s – who shouted the abuse broke Covid rules by travelling from England to be in the Italian capital for the Three Lions’ 4-0 win.
      He was also heard bragging about his intention to ignore quarantine requirements when he returned to the UK. The clip shows him pointing the camera at the 46-year-old former Southend and Macclesfield manager and heard shouting: “Here he is, Sol Campbell.”
      Campbell looks over but proceeds to walk out the restaurant when the abuser goads him again. Unprovoked, he says: “Judas… C***!” It’s at this point Campbell turns back and walks towards the man. As the England legend approaches, the man adds: “Jelly and ice cream when you go mate.”
      WATCH THE GRIM VIDEO AND READ THE FULL STORY HERE!

      MAD FOR IT
      James Maddison is making the most of his well-earned summer holiday by partying in Ibiza.
      The Leicester ace, 24, was missed out on Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2020.
      And he has taken advantage of some time off to soak up the sun before returning to the East Midlands for pre-season.
      Maddison was pictured enjoying himself in a pair of black swimming trunks at the Blue Marlin beach club. The tattooed ex-Norwich star laughed with and hugged friends with a drink in his hand and dived into the water on the Spanish island.
      Maddison endured an injury-hit season with Leicester but racked up 11 goals and ten assists in 42 appearances – and ended it on a high by revealing his girlfriend is pregnant with their first child.
      However, his on-pitch performances were not enough to earn a spot in the Three Lions squad as Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Mason Mount got the call-ups instead.
      Credit: The Mega Agency
      Credit: The Mega Agency
      Credit: The Mega Agency
      Credit: The Mega Agency
      CAPTAIN HARRY IS MAGIC
      Gareth Southgate is delighted to have seen Manchester United ace Harry Maguire rise from the ashes after the lowest point of his career last year.
      The England centre-back retained the manager’s faith even after the United skipper was sent off against Denmark last October.
      It came just weeks after the former Leicester man was convicted of assault by a Greek court. But he is shining for his country this summer – with England yet to concede and the 28-year-old getting on the scoresheet himself against Ukraine.
      Southgate said: “We’re in touch with the players quite a lot when they’re not with us – as much as we can. I try to respect clubs and not interfere but there are obvious times when things have happened and they need more support.
      “The beginning of this season was very difficult for Harry on a number of fronts. So it’s brilliant to see how he has emerged with so much more confidence as a leader. You can see that within the group.
      “Being captain of Manchester United is a massive challenge, a massive responsibility but it’s brought a lot more out of him. You can see he’s more confident in himself and has gone on to another level not just on his game but on his maturity.”
      HORSING AROUND
      Football fever is reaching the racing world with a horse to be named after manager Gareth Southgate.
      The Three Lions are set for a semi-final clash with Denmark on Wednesday and trainer Amy Murphy is well and truly behind the team.
      The Newmarket handler – ironically based at Southgate stables – is set to name a horse after the England boss.
      She has reserved the name ‘Southgate’ to be used when she next heads to the sales.
      Murphy said: “We’re always trying to be inventive and think of different ways to attract owners into the yard.
      “The yard is called Southgate Stables, so as soon as they got through the group round it made sense to go and reserve it.”

      £20 FREE HIT
      Italy and Spain go head-to-head in Tuesday’s Euro 2020 semi-final showdown at Wembley.
      And bookmakers Paddy Power are offering brand new customers a completely risk free £20 bet on the action PLUS a massive 63/1 bet builder special.
      Italy and Spain meet at Wembley in a repeat of the 2012 European Championship final. Spain completely outclassed the Azzurri on that evening – winning 4-0 to secure a successive European crown.
      But Tuesday could be a completely different story with Roberto Mancini’s side the favourites to progress to Sunday’s finale.
      Italy have arguably been the best side in the competition and looked terrific when dumping No.1 ranked Belgium out of the tournament.
      The quarter-final win stretched Italy’s record-breaking unbeaten run to 32 games and we’re backing them to edge out Spain tomorrow.

      SHAWBERTO CARLOS
      England star Luke Shaw has once again been compared to legendary left-back Roberto Carlos.
      The Manchester United ace has been in scintillating form for his club side and has carried that through into Euro 2020 for the Three Lions.
      He has been superb at both ends of the pitch – helping England keep a clean sheet in every game they have played and also chipping in with assists.
      And footage from St George’s Park this morning show his team-mates appreciate his contributions.
      Declan Rice is heard calling him ‘Roberto Shaw’ before Harry Kane chips in with ‘Shawberto’.

      ENGLAND ALL READY
      England’s players are up and about at St George’s Park as they begin a potentially historic week.
      The Three Lions’ official Twitter account shared pictures of the squad making their way out the complex this morning.
      Gareth Southgate’s men will begin their preparation for Wednesday’s semi-final at Wembley against Denmark.

      CRIS CRUISE
      Former Manchester United icon Cristiano Ronaldo has whisked Georgina Rodriguez and the kids off to Majorca for a luxury yacht trip following his Euro 2020 exit.
      The Portugal legend took to social media to post a picture with his partner and four children – Cristiano Jr, Eva, Mateo and Alana Martina – off the coast near the town of Pollensa in the north of the island.
      He captioned the post: “It’s time to rest with my loves.” Ronaldo helped fire his country through from the Group of Death but they were dumped out by Belgium in the last 16.
      The five-time Ballon d’Or winner will return to action with Juventus for pre-season in the coming weeks with the new Serie A campaign set to get underway on August 22.
      The boat he went out to sea on with his family is thought to be the 88-feet long Azimut Grande, the super-yacht he purchased last June which boasts five luxury cabins and six bedrooms.
      Azimut Grande is capable of reaching 28 knots, thanks to two 1,900 horsepower engines, and is made of carbon fibre weighing a whopping 93 tonnes. Ronaldo used to rent the Africa I yacht from a charter company before buying his own vessel.
      Credit: Instagram
      BEST HANGOVER IN THE WORLD
      Jubilant England supporters shrugged off monster hangovers yesterday after brewing up a Euro 2020 semi-final clash with Denmark.
      Three Lions fans necked 42million pints on Saturday night as plucky Ukraine were thumped 4-0.
      But the headaches will probably, no definitely, be bigger if we beat the Carlsberg beer nation on Wednesday night.
      England’s victory in Rome pulled in a peak TV audience of 20.9million viewers.
      Happy fans emerging from 18 months of Covid misery packed beer gardens and fanzones to watch the action, as well as at home.
      Breweries scrambled lorries to deliver ten million extra pints to bars to ensure stocks did not run out. Booze industry data showed 23million pints were drunk at home and 19million in pubs.
      Credit: Reuters
      SAK RACE
      Bukayo Saka has declared himself fit to play England’s European Championship semi-finals against Denmark.
      The Arsenal forward shined in England’s starting 11 in their heroic last 16 win against Germany. But he picked up a knock during the 2-0 win and as a result was replaced by Manchester United’s recent signing Jadon Sancho.
      Sancho, 21, helped England to a 4-0 thumping as Saka, 19, failed to make the bench with manager Gareth Southgate resting the winger.
      Southgate revealed the Gunners starlet made himself available to play against Ukraine and will be in contention for the Denmark clash.
      He said: “He should be fine. He did declare himself available for the (Ukraine) game but we had not really had the chance to see him on the pitch and working at the level we felt would vindicate that decision.
      “He will go back into full training with the group on Tuesday and, yes, he should be fine.”
      Credit: Reuters
      MADE OF THE WRIGHT STUFF
      Ian Wright jumped on the Bukayo Saka hype by changing his Twitter profile to a snap of the youngster.
      England ace Saka was pictured on England’s famous inflatable unicorn yesterday and ex-Three Lions forward Wright was quick to celebrate it.
      The former Arsenal striker shared the shot and captioned it: “#NewProfilePic.”

      BEGINNING OF THE HEND
      Gareth Southgate says the whole squad were delighted when Jordan Henderson scored his first ever England goal against Ukraine.
      The Liverpool skipper broke his Three Lions duck with a header to make it 4-0 in Rome and Southgate says the reaction is a prime example of how good the feeling is within the group.
      The Three Lions boss said: “We talked a lot in the autumn about how that group had allowed a younger group to come in and have a profile because of the team, based on the hard work of those who had gone before.
      “I think the newer players recognise that and they appreciate the way those older guys have made them feel welcome. I loved some of the reaction on the bench when Hendo scored because you could see the younger players were totally delighted for him.
      “There’s a lovely moment with Jude, that shows you what Hendo brings to our environment that the players were so pleased for him. We all were.
      “He’s really accepted that this was going to be a difficult and different challenge but he’s totally thrown himself into it.”
      IN THE LIONS’ DEN
      Gareth Southgate says reaching another semi-final is ‘not enough’ for England.
      The Three Lions boss believes his stars have the mental toughness to complete a fairytale ending at the Euros.
      He said: “We won’t feel totally satisfied if it’s just a semi-final for us.
      “Whereas maybe three years ago, although there was massive disappointment after the World Cup semi-final, there was a feeling we’d come a long way.”
      Now his side are used to re-writing the history books — following their landmark defeat of Germany in the last 16 and Saturday’s 4-0 quarter-final thrashing of Ukraine.
      And Southgate is backing England to end a sequence of four straight semi-final defeats at major tournaments, since their only final in 1966.

      PARTY TIME
      England could stage a Euro 2020 victory party at Wembley in September if the Three Lions win the tournament, according to reports.
      Southgate’s men have the whole of the country believing they can finally bring football home and end the 55-year wait for glory.
      But even if they do go all the way and become the first England team since 1966 to win a tournament, they are unlikely to hold an immediate victory parade.
      According to The Times, The FA have still not ‘discussed the matter in detail’ yet. However, the report states they ‘will have to start formulating plans of how to recognise the achievement’ should they go all the way.
      An open-top bus tour would seem to be the most-likely option in normal circumstances. But Covid-19 restrictions make atour through London a non-starter.
      Now it is thought that an alternative option ‘could be staging a ticketed event at Wembley’ or somewhere else in the capital, according to The Telegraph.
      Credit: Getty
      SET IN STONE
      England fans want a statue of Gareth Southgate erected in the town in which he grew up.
      They have launched a petition to honour the Three Lions boss in Crawley, West Sussex. His parents, Barbara and Clive, still live there.
      Southgate went to Hazelwick Secondary and the school’s motto — “Effort Achieves” — was sewn on to pupils’ blazers and serves him well to this day.
      He played for the school football team — and lined up alongside X Factor star Chico. The change.org petition, started during the 2018 World Cup in Russia where England also made the semi-finals, has more than 1,500 signatures.
      It reads: “Gareth grew up in Crawley . . . and we believe the council should recognise his achievements with a statue of the man himself!” The petition has been resurrected following the latest successes.
      A council spokesman said: “We’re tremendously proud of what Gareth Southgate has achieved. He’s a son of Crawley who grew up here, went to school here and learnt a lot of his football here so we want to recognise his achievements. Nothing has been ruled out.”
      Credit: PA
      Good morning football fans,
      England’s triumphant 4-0 victory over Ukraine was voted as their third-best match over the last 25 years.
      But the demolition job in Rome is still MILES off readers’ favourite game.
      That came in 2001 when England thrashed Germany 5-1 in their own backyard in their 2002 World Cup qualifying clash in September 2001.
      And the Germany rampage topped our poll with a whopping 55.7 per cent of readers’ votes.
      England’s 4-1 win over Holland in the Euro 96 group stage – thanks to two goals apiece from Alan Shearer and Teddy Sheringham – came in second with just 20.3 per cent.
      Meanwhile, the win over Ukraine was watched by a record-breaking 20.9million on BBC One.
      That means the quarter-final is the UK’s new most-watched TV show of 2021.
      With a semi-final coming up against Denmark on Wednesday, SunSport have compared the head-to-head records between the two sides.
      And it may prove closer than you think with England winning 12 out of the last 17 encounters in total.
      The latest came in the Nations League last autumn with England drawing 0-0 in Copenhagen and losing 1-0 at Wembley.
      And finally, England fans hoping to buy a Three Lions shirt for the semi-final are set to be left disappointed with them selling like hotcakes.
      ‘PERSPECTIVE’
      Gareth Southgate has warned his England players that Denmark will be riding ‘a powerful wave of emotion’ heading into Wednesday’s Euros semi-final.
      The football world was stunned when Danish playmaker Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during his team’s tournament opener against Finland.
      And the England boss believes that trauma has strengthened the Danes’ team spirit.
      Southgate said: “We talk about perspective in sport but we rarely have it and this was a moment (Eriksen’s collapse) that brought it home for all of us.
      “I can also imagine what it has done for the Danish team, their bond.
      “What they went through that day – the way their captain (Simon Kjaer) acted and the way the group was – and how that would have connected with their supporters.
      “That’s pretty powerful.
      “They are riding a wave of emotion for certain and that’s a powerful force that’s coming to Wembley.
      “Those things definitely have an impact on your thinking. We talk about pressure a lot and we lose perspective of what that might be when we play sport.”
      CANDY KANE
      Harry Kane is stockpiling Golden Boots.
      He is already the winner of three Premier League ones for finishing top scorer with Tottenham, as well as the 2018 World Cup prize.
      Before this tournament, the England captain expressed his desire to add a Euros boot to his collection.
      Following his failure to score in the group stages, Kane looked more likely to land a wooden spoon for firing blanks.
      Yet as has proved repeatedly in his international career, he can be at his most dangerous during a goal drought and so it has proved again.
      Kane is one of seven players who have struck three times but five-goal Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo and Patrik Schick of the Czech Republic — who have both been eliminated — are in his sights.
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Lionel Messi FREE AGENT as PSG offer on table, Tottenham ‘battle Barcelona for Insigne transfer’, Chelsea news

      by

      LIONEL MESSI helped Argentina reach the semi-finals of the Copa America – but is still a free agent as his Barcelona contract situation drags on.Elsewhere, Toby Alderweireld is set to leave Tottenham and Erling Haaland remains a summer transfer target for Chelsea.
      Meanwhile Spurs are also set to battle Barcelona for the signing of Lorenzo Insigne, according to reports.
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      ED’S UP
      Chelsea have reportedly joined Manchester United in the race to prise French starlet Eduardo Camavinga away from Rennes.
      With the midfielder having just one year left on his deal at Roazhon Park, the Ligue 1 side are expected to cash in on the 18-year-old.
      The Red Devils are understood to be eyeing up an offer for the Les Bleus international, with transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claiming he could be available for as little as £26million.
      It has been stated that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side were making progress in their quest to lure the teenager to Old Trafford.
      But according to Get French Football News, the player’s priority is to join Paris Saint-Germain, though they are yet to make a formal bid.

      NUN THE WISER
      Nuno Espirito Santo has been appointed as Tottenham’s new manager but it could be all change at the club next season.
      Harry Kane wants to leave and Spurs could look a very different team heading into the new campaign.
      Talks over Kane’s future will not be held until England complete their Euro 2020 bid but Spurs face an uphill battle to hold on to their star striker with Manchester City lining up a deal.
      Tottenham are reportedly lining up Benfica star Haris Seferovic as a potential replacement with the striker valued at around £25million. Seferovic scored three times for Switzerland during their run to the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 and helped them stun world champions France in the last-16.
      Spurs are also reportedly in the running to sign Italy star Lorenzo Insigne. The attacker scored a stunning goal during Italy’s win over Belgium which sent them into a semi-final against Spain.
      Insigne has yet to commit to a long-term deal with Napoli and this has alerted Spurs and Barcelona. If Tottenham can bring in Insigne it will enhance their attacking options alongside Son Heung-min.

      GERS SWOOP
      Rangers have completed the signing of John Lundstram on a free transfer.
      The former Sheffield United star has joined on a three-year deal. Lundstram played 62 times in the English Premier League in the last two seasons at the Blades before leaving at the end of his contract.
      On his switch to Rangers, he told the club’s official website: “I spoke with the manager and he sold the club to me, and I was just taken aback by his ambition, vision and drive.
      “I know Glasgow is like Liverpool – a proper football city with proper football fans, and I know the people are very similar and I am buzzing to be a part of the atmosphere I am moving into.
      “The chance to work with Steven Gerrard and Gary McAllister, as well as Michael Beale, was a huge draw. The manager is from the same area as me, and I want to learn from those coaches and become a better version of myself and continue to develop under them.
      “As an outsider looking in, the scenes last season were unbelievable when the club won the league, and when I saw that, I knew I wanted to be a part of it and be a part of a club which wins more trophies for Rangers.”
      Credit: PA
      HOT AIR BALLON
      Nicolas Anelka is urging Kylian Mbappe to consider taking his red-hot striking skills to one of England’s or Spain’s football giants.
      In a letter published by the Athletic, Anelka, 42, wrote: “The French league is not easy, don’t get me wrong, but I think the toughest league is in England. So, if you want to be one of the best, then do what you do in Paris but with Chelsea or United or Arsenal or Manchester City or Liverpool.
      “Or go to Spain to Madrid or Barcelona. Or maybe Italy. You have done so well since coming through at Monaco and taking it to a new level at Paris-Saint Germain.
      “It seems you will stay for another year, then there is a big choice to make. You have at least two choices — stay in Paris or move to Real Madrid. Both of them can win the Champions League these days.
      “When I was at PSG, that wasn’t the case. That choice depends on what you want to achieve in football. If you want the biggest accolades, you will have to move from PSG at some point. The best leagues are in England and Spain, so you didn’t compete with the best players in the best league.
      “You will have to decide. If you want to win the Ballon d’Or, which is what you should be looking at to echo Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, you will have to compete with the best. You can’t say you compete with the best all the time when you are at PSG.”
      Credit: Reuters
      RON HOLIDAY
      Brazil legend Ronaldo was spotted relaxing on a yacht off the coast of Ibiza with girlfriend Celina – before bumping into Zlatan Ibrahimovic on holiday.
      El Fenomeno, 44, appeared to be enjoying his summer break as he splashed around in the ocean.
      Ronaldo is now the majority owner of Spanish second-tier side Real Valladolid having bought a 51 per cent stake for £27million in September 2018.
      The club were relegated from LaLiga at the end of last season after finishing 19th with just 34 points. And now Ronaldo is preparing himself for the gruelling, 42-game season ahead with a holiday in Ibiza.
      The former Inter Milan, AC Milan, Barcelona and Real Madrid legend took a dip in his long, black Nike swimming shorts.
      Partner of six years Celina, meanwhile, wore an olive green bikini as she watched on from the safety of the yacht, before later enjoying a quick swim herself. Later in the day, Ibrahimovic – also holidaying in Ibiza – sent fans wild after sharing a picture of himself with Ronaldo.

      TIME TO CELEBRATE
      UK sports are set to welcome back full crowds this summer WITHOUT the need for vaccine passports, according to reports.
      The PM will announce plans to end lockdown restrictions on July 19 in a press conference this evening. And part of that is expected to permit capacity crowds inside stadiums from that date onwards.
      However, unlike in recent pilot events, The Times reports spectators will NOT need to show evidence of a double Covid-19 vaccination – unless the pandemic problems significantly worsen.
      The British Grand Prix, on July 18, has already been confirmed as another test so will have 140,000 people at Silverstone on race day.
      But other fixtures such as the Goodwood races at the end of July and England’s Test cricket series against India which starts on August 4 should see full stands.
      And football clubs across the pyramid, including in the Premier League and EFL, will follow suit when the new 2021-22 season gets underway next month. However, should England win Euro 2020, a public celebration or parade would not take place until after July 19.
      Credit: Reuters
      RAF AND READY
      Rafa Bentiez has taken charge of his first day of training at Everton as a number of stars reported for pre-season duty.
      The 61-year-old was unveiled as the Toffees boss last week on a three-year deal – much to the dismay of fans due to his history with rivals Liverpool.
      Having previously called Everton a ‘small club’ during his six-year spell at Anfield, supporters failed to hide their anger at the Spaniard on social media.
      Ahead of his appointment, a disgraceful threatening banner was placed in the Wirral area with the message ‘We know where you live. Don’t sign.’
      But Benitez was all smiles at Finch Farm on Monday as the Everton squad took part in a series of physical tests ahead of their participation in the Florida Cup later this month.
      There were a number of notable absentees, with English pair Jordan Pickford and Dominic Calvert-Lewin part of the Three Lions squad at Euro 2020. Meanwhile Richarlison and Yerry Mina are still involved in the Copa America with Brazil and Colombia respectively.
      Credit: Getty
      ROME ROW – EXCLUSIVE
      Sol Campbell confronted a coward who called him a ‘Judas c***’ in Rome before England’s win over Ukraine.
      The spineless yob was filming the former Arsenal and Tottenham centre-back as he left a restaurant on Saturday lunch time and also yelled: “Jelly and ice cream when you go.”
      The video was posted on Twitter but what can’t be seen in the footage is the female companion sitting with the abuser who SunSport understands looked ‘mortified’ by his actions.
      SunSport also understands the man – believed to be in his early 30s – who shouted the abuse broke Covid rules by travelling from England to be in the Italian capital for the Three Lions’ 4-0 win.
      He was also heard bragging about his intention to ignore quarantine requirements when he returned to the UK. The clip shows him pointing the camera at the 46-year-old former Southend and Macclesfield manager and heard shouting: “Here he is, Sol Campbell.”
      Campbell looks over but proceeds to walk out the restaurant when the abuser goads him again. Unprovoked, he says: “Judas… C***!” It’s at this point Campbell turns back and walks towards the man. As the England legend approaches, the man adds: “Jelly and ice cream when you go mate.”
      WATCH THE GRIM VIDEO AND READ THE FULL STORY HERE!

      BALO IS BACK
      Mario Balotelli is poised to join Adana Demirspor – with the Turkish minnows vowing they can tame the madcap Italian.
      Former Manchester City and Liverpool striker Balo is a free agent after leaving Serie B club Monza. Adana want the 30-year-old maverick after winning promotion to the Super Lig.
      Adana president Murat Sancak said: “Negotiations with Mario Balotelli are 85 per cent complete, and he will come to Turkey in the next week.
      “Some say that Balotelli is crazy, but nobody needs to worry. We are from Adana, and we will know how to handle him. His salary won’t be a problem, as our sponsors will pay half of it.
      “Our captain [Inler] has been in contact with him, and he said he wants to join us. We have virtually reached an agreement with him. Once we do he will wear our shirt next season.
      “He wants to be successful with us, so he can go to the World Cup in Qatar with Italy next year.”
      DEL ME IN
      Former Manchester United target Dele Alli has blamed himself for his Tottenham exile instead of criticising former manager Jose Mourinho.
      The 25-year-old started just twice under the Special One in the Premier League during the 2020-21 campaign. In the 32 top-flight outings Mourinho was in charge for prior to his dismissal, Dele played just 233 minutes of football.
      That is a stark contrast to his game time under interim head coach Ryan Mason, where he featured in 385 minutes having started the final five games of the season.
      But despite not getting a look in under the Portuguese gaffer, Dele has refused to blame Mourinho as he insisted he enjoyed working with him.
      He told Goal: “The only person I blame is myself. I should be performing at a level where it is difficult to not put me in the team or not play me.
      “I don’t blame anyone but myself. Working with Mourinho was a great experience and one I learned a lot from.”
      Credit: EPA
      MAD FOR IT
      James Maddison is making the most of his well-earned summer holiday by partying in Ibiza.
      The Leicester ace, 24, was missed out on Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2020.
      And he has taken advantage of some time off to soak up the sun before returning to the East Midlands for pre-season.
      Maddison was pictured enjoying himself in a pair of black swimming trunks at the Blue Marlin beach club. The tattooed ex-Norwich star laughed with and hugged friends with a drink in his hand and dived into the water on the Spanish island.
      Maddison endured an injury-hit season with Leicester but racked up 11 goals and ten assists in 42 appearances – and ended it on a high by revealing his girlfriend is pregnant with their first child.
      However, his on-pitch performances were not enough to earn a spot in the Three Lions squad as Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Mason Mount got the call-ups instead.
      Credit: The Mega Agency
      Credit: The Mega Agency
      Credit: The Mega Agency
      Credit: The Mega Agency
      MATT’S YOUR LOT
      Matteo Guendouzi has announced he will leave Arsenal in an emotional tweet.
      Guendouzi spent last season on loan at Hertha Berlin in Germany after falling out of favour with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta.
      He is now closing in on a move to Marseille in his homeland of France having recently posed with a flag of the Ligue 1 side.
      Confirming his Arsenal exit, Guendouzi, 22, told fans in now-deleted tweets: “I will never forget the Emirates Stadium.
      “I will never forget the fans. I won’t forget the city. I will never forget everything I’ve been through here. I will never forget that my only will was to defend with pride Arsenal colors.
      “Thanks to all of those who believed in me during my time here, during the good and the bad moments. I can only wish the best to the club and its fans who deserve so much, trust me! Good bye Arsenal, I will never forget and will be a gooner forever.”

      ING THE MONEY
      Danny Ings has reportedly rejected a lucrative contract from Southampton to put a number of clubs on red alert.
      The 28-year-old is understood to have no intention of extending his stay at St Mary’s with his current deal set to expire in 2022.
      According to The Athletic, the Saints offered the England international a four-year contract to make him the best-paid player in their history.
      But Ings has turned it down it his quest to join a top Premier League side, and is willing to wait until next year to depart the south coast outfit.
      The contract remains on the table for the former Liverpool man, with Southampton content for him to see out his deal.
      Ings refused to rule out a move out in May with Manchester United and rivals City heavily linked.

      ARE JU SERIOUS?
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes is reportedly set to jet into Italy to discuss his client’s future at the club.
      The 36-year-old has been linked with a move away from Turin this summer having entered the final year of his contract. Manchester United are believed to be eyeing up a shock move to bring him back to Old Trafford – 12 years after he left to join Real Madrid.
      But they are understood to face competition from French giants Paris Saint-Germain who are keen for him to play alongside Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.
      Ronaldo, who is currently on holiday with his family in Majorca following Portugal’s Euro 2020 exit, is due back at Juve on July 14 for pre-season training.
      And according to Tuttosport, Ronaldo’s agent Mendes will soon be arriving in Milan where he will meet with Juve’s football director Federico Cherubini.
      They state that they plan to clarify what Ronaldo’s future is with the Old Lady amid rumours he could pen a new deal at the Allianz Stadium. It has been speculated that Mendes has asked Juventus to extend the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s contract until 2023.

      BAPPE-FIRED
      Kylian Mbappe wants to insert a BANNED clause into any new Paris Saint-Germain contract to allow a transfer to Real Madrid, according to reports.
      The French forward, 22, has one year left to run on his current deal at the Parc des Princes.
      He continues to be linked with a move away with Real Madrid and Liverpool both keen. And according to Marca via Bild, he will only put pen to paper on an extension if PSG include an exit clause.
      That would mean Mbappe could secure a departure if a certain club – in this case Los Blancos – made a suitable bid. PSG would therefore get their star man tied down to a new contract so he would not leave for free next summer.
      And Mbappe would keep his employers happy while stopping himself from being frozen out of a dream transfer to the Bernabeu.
      However, exit clauses are outlawed in Ligue 1. So the arrangement cannot be written into the legal documents. Instead, Mbappe would need to sort a verbal agreement with PSG bosses.
      Credit: AP
      WILL I NEVER
      William Saliba has reportedly turned his back on interest from Newcastle to seal a temporary Marseille move alongside Gunners team-mate Matteo Guendouzi
      French outlet L’Equipe claims Arsenal reached an agreement with the Ligue 1 outfit which will see the young centre-back loaned to the Stade Velodrome side.
      It is thought the France Under-20 centre-back sees Marseille as the best location to perform next season as he seeks to battle his way into contention with Mikel Arteta.
      This follows reports of Emirates outcast Guendouzi sealing a loan deal with the French side. And Get French Football News claims the France Under-21 midfielder is expected to become a permanent player at Jorge Sampaoli’s club, at the end of his temporary stint.
      Saliba, who began his senior career at Saint Etienne in 2018 at the age of 17, has struggled to cement a place in Arsenal’s squad. And it is thought the Prem giants’ reported £50million move for Brighton ace Ben White could see him drop further down Arsenal’s pecking order.
      Credit: Getty
      CRIS CRUISE
      Former Manchester United icon Cristiano Ronaldo has whisked Georgina Rodriguez and the kids off to Majorca for a luxury yacht trip following his Euro 2020 exit.
      The Portugal legend took to social media to post a picture with his partner and four children – Cristiano Jr, Eva, Mateo and Alana Martina – off the coast near the town of Pollensa in the north of the island.
      He captioned the post: “It’s time to rest with my loves.” Ronaldo helped fire his country through from the Group of Death but they were dumped out by Belgium in the last 16.
      The five-time Ballon d’Or winner will return to action with Juventus for pre-season in the coming weeks with the new Serie A campaign set to get underway on August 22.
      The boat he went out to sea on with his family is thought to be the 88-feet long Azimut Grande, the super-yacht he purchased last June which boasts five luxury cabins and six bedrooms.
      Azimut Grande is capable of reaching 28 knots, thanks to two 1,900 horsepower engines, and is made of carbon fibre weighing a whopping 93 tonnes. Ronaldo used to rent the Africa I yacht from a charter company before buying his own vessel.
      Credit: Instagram
      ROMA EMPIRE
      New Roma manager Jose Mourinho is lining up a summer move for Real Madrid left-back Marcelo, reports say.
      ‘The Special One’ is said to be keen on the Brazilian 33-year-old with Roma facing an injury crisis.
      Leonardo Spinazzola could be out for six months after rupturing his Achilles during the Euros.
      The 28-year-old suffered the devastating blow in Italy’s quarter-final win over Belgium last Friday.
      And Mourinho is reportedly ready to bring in Marcelo to fill a gap in Roma’s defence. CalcioMercato reporter Nicolo Schira says that Mourinho is keen on Brazil veteran Marcelo.
      The 33-year-old has just one year left on his Real Madrid contract having been with the club since 2007.
      Credit: Getty – Contributor
      TOON IN
      Amanda Staveley has accused the Premier League of lacking accountability over a £300million Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle.
      Staveley’s consortium, which comprises of Saudi’s sovereign wealth fund PIF, PCP Capital Partners and Reuben Brothers, became impatient that Prem rulers had dragged their feet over the purchase of Newcastle.
      Sky News now claims they’ve seen a letter from Staveley, who is at the head of the takeover consortium, accusing the Premier League of a ‘closely guarded lack of transparency’.
      The letter, addressed to football governance reviewer Tracey Crouch, says: “Fans surely deserve absolute transparency from the regulators across all their processes – to best ensure that they act responsibly. They are performing a function like that of a government regulator – but without the same systems for accountability.
      “[There is now] a chance for those involved [in the Newcastle United bid] to be seen to take a robust stance – just as the government so decisively and effectively stepped into the European Super League debacle.
      “But there is real urgency – given the NUFC arbitration hearing is due to take place this month. We need intervention immediately to force the issue out into the open.
      “It is my view that it is likely that that would be enough to make those involved behave more responsibly and signal the government’s intention to take effective action in the interests of the country.”

      CAM YOU BELIEVE IT?
      Manchester United have taken a step closer to signing Rennes star Eduardo Camavinga.
      The Arsenal target has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League this summer.
      Rennes said they had not received a concrete offer from United last week.
      But the Red Devils are edging closer to making direct contact, according to Fabrizio Romano.
      The Ligue 1 side would reportedly be open to doing business at £25.7million as they face losing him for nothing when his contract expires next summer.
      Manchester United are progressing in direct contacts to sign Eduardo Camavinga. 🔴 #MUFCRennes would be open to negotiate on potential €30m fee – as they’d lose Camavinga for free next summer. 🇫🇷He’s one of Man Utd long term targets – PSG have always been interested too.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 4, 2021

      BEST HANGOVER IN THE WORLD
      Jubilant England supporters shrugged off monster hangovers yesterday after brewing up a Euro 2020 semi-final clash with Denmark.
      Three Lions fans necked 42million pints on Saturday night as plucky Ukraine were thumped 4-0.
      But the headaches will probably, no definitely, be bigger if we beat the Carlsberg beer nation on Wednesday night.
      England’s victory in Rome pulled in a peak TV audience of 20.9million viewers.
      Happy fans emerging from 18 months of Covid misery packed beer gardens and fanzones to watch the action, as well as at home.
      Breweries scrambled lorries to deliver ten million extra pints to bars to ensure stocks did not run out. Booze industry data showed 23million pints were drunk at home and 19million in pubs.
      Credit: Reuters
      ‘I’M CONCERNED’
      Arsenal outcast Matteo Guendouzi has vowed to ‘remain a Gunner no matter what’ amid links with a move to Marseille.
      The Frenchman also revealed he is ‘concerned’ at Arsenal’s ‘failure’ last season.
      Guendouzi, 22, spent the 2020-21 campaign on loan at Hertha Berlin after falling out with boss Mikel Arteta.
      He hasn’t featured for the Gunners since the 2-1 defeat against Brighton in June 2020 where he grabbed Neal Maupay’s throat.
      With just one year left on his contract at the Emirates, Arsenal are understood to be keen to offload the midfielder to avoid losing him on a free transfer.
      Guendouzi is believed to have already agreed personal terms with Marseille as he looks to head back to his native country after departing Lorient in 2018.
      RON MORE YEAR
      Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent has asked his current employers to extend his contract, according to reports.
      The 36-year-old has been linked with a move after the Italian giants failed to retain their Serie A crown last term.
      According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ronaldo’s representative Jorge Mendes has asked Juve to extend his existing deal to 2023.
      Premier League giants United are believed to have been exploring the possibility of bringing the club legend back to Old Trafford.
      EV SOME OF THAT
      Everton have confirmed that work will begin on their new 53,000 seater stadium on July 26.
      The Toffees are planning to say an emotional farewell to Goodison Park at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
      They have today confirmed that they will take possession of their new Bramley-Moore Dock site later this month on July 26.
      And they also revealed that the first phase of building the state-of-the-art ground will begin that very same day.
      Contractors Laing O’Rourke will start by preparing the Dock Site for the build, while also repairing and preserving the Grade II listed dock wall.
      RAPH AND READY
      Real Madrid star Raphael Varane has ‘given his word’ that he wants to join Manchester United this summer, according to reports.
      The Frenchman, 28, has played for the Spanish giants for a decade.
      But with just one year remaining on his contract, the towering defender wants to try something new.
      The Red Devils finally wrapped up the £73million signing of Jadon Sancho this week.
      And club chiefs want to follow up the statement purchase by recruiting Varane.
      According to Spanish paper Sport, the feeling is mutual, with Varane eager to join Man United and telling them as much.
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      Lionel Messi FREE AGENT, Tottenham ‘battle Barcelona for Insigne transfer’, Trincao joins Wolves, Chelsea news

      by

      LIONEL MESSI helped Argentina reach the semi-finals of the Copa America – but is still a free agent as his Barcelona contract situation drags on.Elsewhere, Toby Alderweireld is set to leave Tottenham and Erling Haaland remains a summer transfer target for Chelsea.
      Meanwhile Spurs are also set to battle Barcelona for the signing of Lorenzo Insigne, according to reports.
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      Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
      ‘I’M CONCERNED’
      Arsenal outcast Matteo Guendouzi has vowed to ‘remain a Gunner no matter what’ amid links with a move to Marseille.
      The Frenchman also revealed he is ‘concerned’ at Arsenal’s ‘failure’ last season.
      Guendouzi, 22, spent the 2020-21 campaign on loan at Hertha Berlin after falling out with boss Mikel Arteta.
      He hasn’t featured for the Gunners since the 2-1 defeat against Brighton in June 2020 where he grabbed Neal Maupay’s throat.
      With just one year left on his contract at the Emirates, Arsenal are understood to be keen to offload the midfielder to avoid losing him on a free transfer.
      Guendouzi is believed to have already agreed personal terms with Marseille as he looks to head back to his native country after departing Lorient in 2018.
      RON MORE YEAR
      Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent has asked his current employers to extend his contract, according to reports.
      The 36-year-old has been linked with a move after the Italian giants failed to retain their Serie A crown last term.
      According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ronaldo’s representative Jorge Mendes has asked Juve to extend his existing deal to 2023.
      Premier League giants United are believed to have been exploring the possibility of bringing the club legend back to Old Trafford.
      EV SOME OF THAT
      Everton have confirmed that work will begin on their new 53,000 seater stadium on July 26.
      The Toffees are planning to say an emotional farewell to Goodison Park at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
      They have today confirmed that they will take possession of their new Bramley-Moore Dock site later this month on July 26.
      And they also revealed that the first phase of building the state-of-the-art ground will begin that very same day.
      Contractors Laing O’Rourke will start by preparing the Dock Site for the build, while also repairing and preserving the Grade II listed dock wall.
      RAPH AND READY
      Real Madrid star Raphael Varane has ‘given his word’ that he wants to join Manchester United this summer, according to reports.
      The Frenchman, 28, has played for the Spanish giants for a decade.
      But with just one year remaining on his contract, the towering defender wants to try something new.
      The Red Devils finally wrapped up the £73million signing of Jadon Sancho this week.
      And club chiefs want to follow up the statement purchase by recruiting Varane.
      According to Spanish paper Sport, the feeling is mutual, with Varane eager to join Man United and telling them as much.
      BUSQ-A RHYMES
      Sergio Busquets is reportedly ‘tempted’ by a move to the MLS.
      But the veteran midfielder plans on staying at Barcelona this summer.
      Fabrizio Romano claims various American sides have made offers to sign Busquets, 32, when his Euros adventure with Spain ends.
      It was reported last month that Busquets was one of 18 players made available for transfer by Barcelona.
      It is no secret the Catalans are heavily in debt and desperate to cut costs.
      And that has prompted a number of MLS clubs to make bids for Busquets.
      MAN ABOUT TOWN
      Andros Townsend has joked ‘maybe Lionel Messi’ will replace him at Crystal Palace.
      The winger was asked about his future at Selhurst Park after his contract expired.
      Townsend, who is out of contract along with Barcelona star Messi, told talkSPORT: “But we’re the same position. So, effectively, Palace could be looking at Messi to replace me!”
      The 29-year-old is in the dark about his future but has not ruled out staying at Palace.
      Townsend said: “It looks nice, very nice, but the fact it’s July 3, pre-season has started and I’m sat in a basement with you, I’m probably no nearer to knowing about my future, to be honest.
      “I’m out of contract. From July 1, I’m no longer a Palace player.”
      ONES PHAR US
      Plucky Egyptian side Pharco FC want to sign iconic right-back Dani Alves and open talks with Barcelona legend Lionel Messi.
      Owner of the newly-promoted side Shreen Helmy is full of ambition having broken into Egypt’s top flight.
      Helmy may be hopeful of signing Alves, 38 – who is currently playing for boyhood club Sao Paulo in Brazil.
      But he is not deluded enough to expect Messi, 34, to play for his team – instead wanting to work with him on a charity initiative.
      Helmy told he told ElHadath AlYoum: “I am working on bringing Dani Alves from Sao Paulo because we can benefit from his experience.
      “I have met Alves and he told me he wanted to play with Sao Paulo since he was 8 years old, and I think I can bring him to the Egyptian Premier League.”
      SHAW THING
      Manchester United are ready to reward Luke Shaw with a new contract, according to reports.
      The left-back enjoyed a fine season at Old Trafford and has continued his form into the Euros.
      Shaw’s current deal expires in 2023 with the option of an extra year.
      But transfer guru Fabrizio Romano believes a new and improved deal will soon be on the table.
      Manchester United will offer Luke Shaw a new contract in the next months. He’s considered a key player and Solskjaer wants Luke to be 100% involved in the project. 🔴 #MUFCThere’s still nothing agreed with AC Milan for Diogo Dalot. Trippier price tag from Atleti – always €40m.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 4, 2021

      LOR & ORDER
      Tottenham and Barcelona are interested in signing Napoli skipper Lorenzo Insigne, according to reports.
      Both clubs are believed to have contacted the player’s agent as he’s yet to agree a long-term deal at the Serie A club.
      According to Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is struggling to persuade Insigne to commit his future to the club.
      The 30-year-old was born in Naples and came through the ranks at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, receiving the captaincy in February 2019.
      He’s played more than 300 league games for the club, winning two Italian Cups and helping the team finish fifth in Serie A last term.
      Insigne has always remained loyal to the Italian side but has just a year left on his existing deal and reportedly wants a pay rise.
      SANCH-NO DISTRACTIONS
      Jadon Sancho insists he is fully focused on England – despite his £73million transfer to Manchester United.
      The winger, 21, was handed a shock start as the Three Lions crushed Ukraine 4-0 to reach the semi-finals of Euro 2020 barely 48 hours after his Old Trafford switch was announced.
      Sancho was one of the stars of the show with a strong performance, despite only featuring for six minutes in the tournament prior to his Rome display.
      And speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live afterwards, he confirmed his sole attention is on all matters Three Lions with a semi-final against Denmark at Wembley on Wednesday.
      The ex-Manchester City youngster said: “To be fair, I don’t want to talk about Manchester United.
      “Right now I just want to focus on England.
      “I’ve just been focusing on myself while I’ve been at England. I’ve always been ready if I needed to come on.”
      NEW TARGETS
      Exclusive: Newcastle look like they will move out Swedish right-back Emil Krafth because his first-team chances will probably be limited.
      Krafth, 26, had the chance to go in the January window but wanted to stay on.
      However, he could drop even further down the list as boss Steve Bruce looks for new faces.
      Newcastle have been wading through their target list after a couple of relatively quiet years in the market.
      And a remarkable 44 names were discussed at a recent scouts meeting.
      The Toon will also look to free up some more space from their books by releasing forgotten man Henri Saivet.
      UNDER SIGNS
      Marseille have completed the loan signing of Roma winger Cengiz Under.
      The Turkey international spent last season on loan at FA Cup winners Leicester City.
      But failed to impress.
      ┈┈┈┈╭╯╰╰╰╰╰╮┈┈┈┈┈┈┈▕╭▅╮╭▅╮▏┈┈┈┈▕▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▏┈╭━╮ @cengizunder ╭━╮┃┳╯ ┈est Olympien┈ ╰┳┃┃┣▏ ┈┈ 🔵🇹🇷⚪ ┈┈▕┫┃╰▕▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▏╯pic.twitter.com/Avno0JiUdI— Olympique de Marseille 🇬🇧 🇺🇸 (@OM_English) July 4, 2021

      POG TOP
      Man Utd want to tie midfielder Paul Pogba down to a new deal.
      The France international is entering the final year of his contract and will be able to make pre-agreements with clubs from January.
      But if Pogba does sign a new deal keeping him at Old Trafford, he would most likely become the top earner at the club – leapfrogging De Gea.
      The wages of Manchester United’s current players
      QUITE FRANK
      Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt have made a bi for AC Milan talent Jens Petter Hauge.
      The bid is believed to be in the region of 7m/8m Euros, according to Fabrizio Romano.
      However, AC Milan want more money for the player.
      Frankfurt have also completed all of the relevant paperwork to sign Rafael Santos Borre, who will join as a free agent.
      Eintracht Frankfurt made an official bid around €7/8m to sign Jens Petter Hauge. AC Milan want more to sell the Norwegian talent. Talks ongoing. 🔴🇳🇴 #EintrachtEintracht board also signed and completed all paperworks for Rafael Santos Borré – done deal, he joins as free agent.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 4, 2021

      NOT SO BAD
      Brighton’s Mat Ryan is close to joining Spanish side Real Sociedad, according to Sky Sports.
      The goalkeeper spent last season on loan at Premier League big boys Arsenal.
      But failed to impress enough to earn himself a permanent transfer to north London.
      Personal terms have been agreed, and a medical is due to be completed next week.
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      OPTION TO BUY
      Marseille will have an option to buy in William Saliba’s loan deal, according to reports. 
      The Arsenal defender is set to move back to France after failing to make a single first team appearance.
      And with the Gunners planning on bringing in Brighton’s Ben White for a rumoured £50m, Saliba’s minutes in north London look limited. 
      According to L’Equipe, Marseille, will have an option to buy for the young defender.
      And Marseille could pick Saliba up for less than £10m if they choose to make the deal permanent.
      BREAKING: PALACE ANNOUNCE VIEIRA
      Crystal Palace have announced Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira as their new manager.
      The Frenchman has signed a contract keeping him at the club until 2024.
      𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 🦅We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Patrick Vieira as our new manager until 2024 ✍️#CPFC | https://t.co/utMcYSDkhb— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) July 4, 2021

      LOAN RANGER
      Old Trafford outcast Donny van de Beek could have a pivotal role in Manchester United’s bid to land Raphael Varane, writes PHIL THOMAS.
      United have held initial talks with Real Madrid about signing the French centre-back, who would cost around £50million.
      But Real are also keen on taking Van de Beek, 24, to the Bernabeu on a year-long loan, with a commitment to buy 12 months down the line.
      And United believe that gives them a key bargaining tool in their pursuit of Varane, who tops their list of centre-back targets.
      Varane, 28, has one more season left on his deal and can sign a pre-contract agreement in January.
      As much as the Spanish giants would love to keep him, they also do not  want to lose him on a free — especially as they are in such a cash-strapped state at the moment. 
      So United are more likely to play ball over Van de Beek, if it gives them a little wriggle room in signing Varane, who is also on Paris Saint-Germain’s radar.

      PAT’S BACK
      Patrick Vieira will be the new Crystal Palace manager, agreeing to a three-year deal.

      NOT GUNNER RETURN
      It looks like Martin Odegaard will not return to the Emirates next season.
      But the Real Madrid winger expressed his gratitude to Arsenal on Instagram.
      He captioned a post of him playing for the Gunners; “Arsenal , thank you so much for these 6 months. 
      “My time with the Arsenal family will always hold a special place in my heart.
      “I wanna thank everyone in and around the club for the way you made me feel like a part of the family since the first day. 
      “Special thanks to the fans, even without you guys at the stadium for the majority of the season, I felt you with me at all times.
      “A huge thank you to the boss and his staff for everything I’ve learned during my stay. 
      “Thank you also to all my teammates for such a great time on and off the pitch. Will miss you all.
      “Thank you, gunners family. Always in my heart.”

      BRIGHTON EYE JAMES
      Brighton are exploring the possibility of signing Dan James from Man Utd.
      James had a tough season for the Red Devils, struggling to break into the first team.
      And with game time limited, James could be temped to move down south.
      According to SunSport’s Alan Nixon, Brighton boss Graham Potter wants to nab James – who he’s managed before – and Joe Rodon from Tottenham.
      THAT DOES THE TRICK
      Wolves have pulled off the signing of Francisco Trincao from Barcelona.
      The highly rated Portuguese winger will join the Premier League outfit on loan for the 2021-22 season.
      What a signing.

      SAM’S THE MAN
      Arsenal have identified West Brom and England goalkeeper Sam Johnstone as a transfer target. 
      According to the Daily Star, Arsenal have been put off by Sheffield United’s high valuation of Aaron Ramsdale.
      And the Gunners have now switched their attention to Johnstone who could be available for less than £20m
      The Blades were demanding upwards of £35m to sign Ramsdale, putting off any interest.
      Ramsdale (left) and Johnstone (right)Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      ‘ONE OF THE PLAYERS’ OF EURO 2020
      Arsenal legend Ian Wright has praised potential Arsenal target Raheem Sterling as “one of the players” of Euro 2020.
      Sterling has scored three goals for England and set up Harry Kane’s opener yesterday night.
      Wright said: “Raheem Sterling is one of the players of the tournament.
      “He finds Harry Kane with a brilliant pass (for the opening goal).
      “He comes inside. We need players who can run with the ball, progress the ball, into Harry Kane who can take our half-chances. That’s a half-chance.”
      GUNNERS FAN
      West Ham will have to move fast to sign Antonin Barak from Hellas Verona. 
      The attacking midfielder is a life-long Arsenal fan, and that could be problematic. 
      He told Gazzetta dello Sport in 2017: “I was and still am an Arsenal fan. 
      “I know that I need to develop, and it doesn’t bother me where I end up, we’ll see. 
      “In Europe, Arsenal and Barcelona appeal to me.”
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      England 4-0 Ukraine LIVE REACTION: Three Lions storm into Denmark semi-final after Kane, Maguire and Henderson goals

      by

      ENGLAND are into the semi-finals of Euro 2020 following a sensational performance against Ukraine. It was a night to remember for the Three Lions in Rome, as Harry Kane netted twice to send them roaring into the semi-finals.
      England will now take on Denmark this coming Wednesday after the Danes edged out the Czech Republic.
      Follow ALL the latest reaction with our live blog below…
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      SANCH-NO DISTRACTIONS
      Jadon Sancho insists he is fully focused on England – despite his £73million transfer to Manchester United.
      The winger, 21, was handed a shock start as the Three Lions crushed Ukraine 4-0 to reach the semi-finals of Euro 2020 barely 48 hours after his Old Trafford switch was announced.
      Sancho was one of the stars of the show with a strong performance, despite only featuring for six minutes in the tournament prior to his Rome display.
      And speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live afterwards, he confirmed his sole attention is on all matters Three Lions with a semi-final against Denmark at Wembley on Wednesday.
      The ex-Manchester City youngster said: “To be fair, I don’t want to talk about Manchester United.
      “Right now I just want to focus on England.
      “I’ve just been focusing on myself while I’ve been at England. I’ve always been ready if I needed to come on.”
      DANE & DUSTED?
      England reached the semi-finals of the European Championship for the first time since 1996 with a 4-0 win against Ukraine in Rome.
      Standing between the Three Lions and the final is an inspired Denmark side, who have a good record against Gareth Southgate’s team.
      Here, SunSport takes a look at England’s record against the Scandinavian nation since the two first met in September 1948.

      WAY TO GO ROME
      Italian police barred 52 fans from entering last night’s England game in Rome due to strict Covid rules.
      Cops prevented the supporters from attending the quarter final against Ukraine at Stadio Olimpico amid fears of the contagious Delta variant of the virus.
      England fans had already been warned that a five day quarantine was in place for anyone coming to Italy who had been to Britain in the previous two weeks.
      Detectives cross checked names of travellers who had arrived in Italy from England and Ukraine with Euro 2020 ticket holders.
      Non-essential travel is also currently banned between Ukraine and Italy.
      Italian cops found some 52 fans who had not complied with quarantine rules and arranged to have their tickets cancelled.
      TV PICK-FORD
      A record-breaking 20.9million tuned in to BBC One to watch England’s 4-0 thumping of Ukraine.
      That means the Euro 2020 quarter-final is the UK’s new most-watched TV show of 2021.
      The 20.9m peak pips the 20.6m from Tuesday – when the Three Lions booked their spot in the last eight by beating Germany.
      And the figure means the BBC One broadcast had a whopping 81.8 per cent share of the audience on Saturday evening.
      On top of that, a further 5.2m live streams of the drama in Rome were watched through the BBC Sport website and the iPlayer.
      That took the overall viewing number to around 26.1m.

      NO SHIR THING
      England fans are struggling to buy an official Three Lions shirt ahead of Wednesday’s big semi-final clash with Denmark at Wembley.
      Gareth Southgate’s men made it to Euro 2020’s final four after eliminating Ukraine in the quarter-finals thanks to a decisive 4-0 thrashing with a brace by Harry Kane and goals by Harry Maguire as well as Jordan Henderson.
      Hopes of a first international trophy since the 1966 World Cup are high and English supporters want to enjoy the ride in style.
      But frustrated fans are finding it difficult to obtain the team’s jerseys, which are selling out.
      RICE KANED
      England star Declan Rice has joked ‘why always me’ after Harry Kane accidentally choked him during a goal celebration.
      The team were celebrating their second goal against Ukraine in their Euro 2020 quarter-final when Rice was caught by his skipper.
      After Harry Maguire doubled England’s advantage, Rice was the first man to catch up with the Manchester United defender as he celebrated his goal.
      Kane was next to the party, jumping on top of Maguire and Rice and accidentally putting the latter in a headlock.
      The West Ham star was held by the captain for a few seconds before the adrenaline faded and Rice could smile again.
      BBC Sport then shared a video of the hilarious incident on Twitter – and the 22-year-old joined in the fun by quote tweeting it.
      Rice joked: “Why always me?”
      BEST ENG SHOW
      SunSport readers have voted England’s Euro 2020 drubbing of Ukraine as their THIRD best match of the last 25 years.
      But the 4-0 demolition job in Rome is still MILES off readers’ favourite game.
      Gareth Southgate produced yet another tactical masterclass as England booked their place in the semi-finals.
      Harry Kane scored twice – with Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson also finding the net – as the Three Lions recorded their biggest-ever margin of victory in a major tournament knockout game.
      The 4-0 victory eclipsed 3-0 wins over Denmark and Paraguay at the 2002 and 1986 World Cups respectively.
      The Roman battering was also the first time England have scored four goals in a knockout game since the 1966 World Cup final win over West Germany.

      ZIZOU ARE YOU?
      Luke Shaw delivered two assists for England in the space of three minutes and 51 seconds at Euro 2020
      And that was more than French legend Zinedine Zidane managed in 14 appearances at the European Championships.
      Shaw set up the second goal for Harry Maguire before crossing for Harry Kane to make it 3-0 in the 4-0 win over Ukraine in the quarter-finals.
      Told about his achievement of overtaking Zidane’s contributions at a Euro, Shaw said: “A very strange stat! A nice one, I think.
      “Obviously, Zidane was one of the best midfielders ever and I can’t compare to him.
      “But the most important thing for me was reaching the semi-final, getting another game at Wembley in front of our own crowd and hopefully making them happy again.”
      SOUTHGATE YOU’RE THE ONE
      Stuart Pearce, former England international and team-mate of Gareth Southgate, has praised his pal for his decision making so far at Euro 2020.
      Pearce cleared up a common misconception about Southgate.
      Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “There was a misconception, potentially, and I’m talking from a footballing aspect, that he’s a soft touch, or whatever.
      “I don’t think there is now because people in the game have [recognised] he’ll make the tough judgement calls and I’ll give you one or two real examples.
      “He put Henderson in the group where a lot of people were saying he shouldn’t be, he’s not good enough for one reason, not fit enough. You can’t take injured players.
      “He knew the worth of Henderson [and Harry Maguire], you saw that last night. Both on the score sheet. I’m absolutely delighted for both of them.
      “But, because he knows what they both give the group he was prepared to wait. Not a popular choice in some quarters.
      “Going into the first game, by the way, there was a lot of people shouting and hollering and rattling about Sterling shouldn’t be playing. Gareth knew his worth.
      “All those people have pulled their necks in now because Sterling has probably carried this team, by the way.
      “He [Southgate] has made judgement calls.
      “Everyone wants Grealish and Foden in, popular choices, they are the sexy choices, but he hasn’t done that all the time. They have played their part as a group member but he picked the team he though was right and credit to him.”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      SAK BACK, NO JACK
      Gary Neville has picked his England XI for the Euro 2020 semi-final clash with Denmark – with Jack Grealish yet again missing out, writes DAVE FRASER.
      The Three Lions demolished Ukraine 4-0 in their quarter-final clash in Rome with Jadon Sancho given his first start of the tournament.
      The new Manchester United star, 21, looked lively throughout the game and gave England a new dimension in attack – despite being given a bizarrely low 4/10 match rating by L’Equipe.
      Fans have been crying out for Gareth Southgate to utilise Grealish more having played just 115 minutes across England’s five games.
      But Neville reckons the Three Lions boss should turn back to Bukayo Saka over Grealish or Sancho for the semi-final showdown against Denmark.
      The Arsenal whiz, 19, starred in wins over Czech Republic and Germany but missed the Ukraine demolition job with a minor knock.
      And Neville wants him back on the right-wing for the last-four clash at Wembley on Wednesday night.

      LONDON CALLING
      Hundreds of England fans took to the streets after last night’s thumping win over Ukraine.
      Will the Three Lions reach the final next Wednesday?
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      SANTASTIC
      Rio Ferdinand has made a bold prediction for Jadon Sancho’s first season at Man Utd.
      Sancho started his first game a major international tournament for England last night in a 4-0 win.
      And his dazzling footwork left United fans in awe.
      Club legend Ferdinand spoke highly of Sancho on the BBC’s coverage of the game.
      He said: “I’ll tell you one thing, next season at Man United, he’ll have people off their seats.
      “There’s moments in this game where he draws your breath and you think, ‘Oh, wow, that’s different’ — and he’s a fabulous talent, we know that, but mentally he’s very strong and he’s got a desire to be as good as he can be.
      “Players that can up the potential of the game are different and they bring something different to your team in the way that he does. 
      “This is his first game, by the way, in the tournament, and he comes in and plays the way he did and creates moments, it shows you the talent that is there.”

      THREE YEARS LATER
      Harry Maguire has scored at back-to-back major international tournaments for England.

      LAMPARD ON SHAW
      England and Chelsea legend Frank Lampard has praised Man Utd left-back Luke Shaw for his fantastic form.
      Shaw registered two more assists last night against Ukraine in England’s 4-0 win.
      Speaking after the game, Lampard said: “Something has clicked with him in the last 18 months.
      “Sometimes you can’t control injury stuff, he wasn’t in the best of shape. Now he can do what you want from him.”
      THREE LIONS RUN RIOT
      Goals from captain Kane, Maguire and Henderson seed a 4-0 win in Rome against Ukraine.
      England will now face Denmark next Wednesday at Wembley in the semi-final.

      FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING
      Jordan Henderson got his first England goal in 62 appearances.

      CAPTAIN KANE
      Harry Kane got off to a poor start at Euro 2020, but has since scored three in his last two.
      And left-back Luke Shaw has registered three assists.

      ‘LONG TIME COMING’
      England midfielder Jordan Henderson finally scored his first international goal after 62 appearances.
      And Henderson couldn’t hide his excitement.
      He said: “It’s about time, it’s been a long time coming.
      “I have felt one coming and thankfully I’ve managed to get on the scoresheet.
      “I’m delighted for the lads because overall the performance was fantastic and will give us good momentum going into the next game.
      “I always felt it would come eventually, but I always try to contribute the best I can on the pitch, I never really think about that I need to score goals.
      “There are a lot of other players to do that. I need to concentrate on my job on the pitch, what I need to do, what the coaching staff and payers need me to do.
      “Of course I would have liked to have scored more goals but I can’t complain. I’m here, contributing and managed to get on the scoresheet.”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      CHOKEHOLD
      Kane had Rice gasping for air!

      ‘ONE OF THE PLAYERS’ OF EURO 2020
      Arsenal legend Ian Wright has praised potential Arsenal target Raheem Sterling as “one of the players” of Euro 2020.
      Sterling has scored three goals for England and set up Harry Kane’s opener yesterday night.
      Wright said: “Raheem Sterling is one of the players of the tournament.
      “He finds Harry Kane with a brilliant pass (for the opening goal).
      “He comes inside. We need players who can run with the ball, progress the ball, into Harry Kane who can take our half-chances. That’s a half-chance.”
      ‘MAN MOUNTAIN’
      England and Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand heaped praise on Man Utd club captain Harry Maguire. 
      Speaking after the game, he said: “He (Maguire) brings composure and sometimes the team looks different when someone wants the ball. 
      “He wants to get on the ball and take pressure off the other players. The team breathes more when he’s in the team. 
      “They are a stronger team and a better when he’s there. He’s so comfortable in international football, some players prefer club level or playing for their country.
      “In an England shirt he looks like a man mountain. He comes out and just picks the right passes. 
      “You saw in his first game back he was threading balls in the lines. He brings someone in and then plays it through. 
      “That’s the difference between him and other centre-backs.”
      ARE YOU SHAW?
      Luke Shaw is finally showing the promise that earned him the big move from Southampton to Man Utd.
      And he’s replicating it well for England, proving to be one of the Three Lions’ most important players.
      Luke Shaw at #EURO2020 [#ENG rank]:21 passes into the box [🥇]8 chances created [🥇]5 chances created from open play [🥇]4 big chances created [🥇]3 assists [🥇]1.57 xA [🥇]Outstanding. 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/S2KCjb3mCE— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) July 3, 2021

      WON IN ROME
      England fans were in dreamland last night after the Three Lions scored FOUR times to set up a historic semi-final.
      Millions partied deep into the night in packed pubs, parks and streets across the country – while 5,000 Three Lions fans roared on the team in Rome.
      Jubilant fans sprayed booze and danced on tables as Gareth Southgate’s side cruised to their first Euro’s semi-final in 25 years.
      The win set up a titanic clash with Denmark at Wembley in front of a boosted home crowd of 60,000 on Wednesday night – and PM Boris Johnson hailed an “outstanding performance”.

      UNSUNG HEROES
      Gareth Southgate has paid tribute to the England stars who have yet to feature at Euro 2020.
      He said: “It’s enjoyable but immediately I’m thinking about the players that I didn’t get on the pitch because the likes of Conor Coady, Ben Chilwell, Aaron Ramsdale, Sam Johnstone, Ben White.
      “We’ve had 21 on the pitch but those guys have been as important. The spirit that they’ve created, the togetherness.
      “I regret not getting them on the field and I hate this thing of having to leave three out every match.
      “It takes more energy from me than anything else because none of them deserve to be out of the 26.
      “The fact that the guys have shown the respect that they’ve shown is why we’re in the position that we’re in.”
      NOT DANE YET
      England will need to be at their best to get past Denmark in the Euro 2020 semi-final, Gareth Southgate has said.
      The Three Lions boss commented:
      “They beat us in the autumn, we only drew to them in Copenhagen [in the Nations League]. They’re a very underestimated team.
      “As a football nation they’ve done incredibly well, they’ve produced so many good players considering their population.
      “This is going to be a really tough test and we’ll have to be at our best to get through it.”

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      Euro 2020 LIVE: England into semi-finals, fans party into night, Three Lions to face Denmark – latest updates

      by

      EURO 2020 has reached the semi-final stage – and England are there! The Three Lions stormed into the semis on Saturday, crashing FOUR past Ukraine to set up a showdown with Denmark at Wembley.
      And fans across the country went wild, with millions celebrating in the streets.
      Meanwhile Leonardo Spinazzola is reportedly out for months after being stretchered off in Italy’s win against Belgium, meaning he will miss the clash with Spain.
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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      BEST ENG SHOW
      SunSport readers have voted England’s Euro 2020 drubbing of Ukraine as their THIRD best match of the last 25 years.
      But the 4-0 demolition job in Rome is still MILES off readers’ favourite game.
      Gareth Southgate produced yet another tactical masterclass as England booked their place in the semi-finals.
      Harry Kane scored twice – with Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson also finding the net – as the Three Lions recorded their biggest-ever margin of victory in a major tournament knockout game.
      The 4-0 victory eclipsed 3-0 wins over Denmark and Paraguay at the 2002 and 1986 World Cups respectively.
      The Roman battering was also the first time England have scored four goals in a knockout game since the 1966 World Cup final win over West Germany.

      ZIZOU ARE YOU?
      Luke Shaw delivered two assists for England in the space of three minutes and 51 seconds at Euro 2020
      And that was more than French legend Zinedine Zidane managed in 14 appearances at the European Championships.
      Shaw set up the second goal for Harry Maguire before crossing for Harry Kane to make it 3-0 in the 4-0 win over Ukraine in the quarter-finals.
      Told about his achievement of overtaking Zidane’s contributions at a Euro, Shaw said: “A very strange stat! A nice one, I think.
      “Obviously, Zidane was one of the best midfielders ever and I can’t compare to him.
      “But the most important thing for me was reaching the semi-final, getting another game at Wembley in front of our own crowd and hopefully making them happy again.”
      SOUTHGATE YOU’RE THE ONE
      Stuart Pearce, former England international and team-mate of Gareth Southgate, has praised his pal for his decision making so far at Euro 2020.
      Pearce cleared up a common misconception about Southgate.
      Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “There was a misconception, potentially, and I’m talking from a footballing aspect, that he’s a soft touch, or whatever.
      “I don’t think there is now because people in the game have [recognised] he’ll make the tough judgement calls and I’ll give you one or two real examples.
      “He put Henderson in the group where a lot of people were saying he shouldn’t be, he’s not good enough for one reason, not fit enough. You can’t take injured players.
      “He knew the worth of Henderson [and Harry Maguire], you saw that last night. Both on the score sheet. I’m absolutely delighted for both of them.
      “But, because he knows what they both give the group he was prepared to wait. Not a popular choice in some quarters.
      “Going into the first game, by the way, there was a lot of people shouting and hollering and rattling about Sterling shouldn’t be playing. Gareth knew his worth.
      “All those people have pulled their necks in now because Sterling has probably carried this team, by the way.
      “He [Southgate] has made judgement calls.
      “Everyone wants Grealish and Foden in, popular choices, they are the sexy choices, but he hasn’t done that all the time. They have played their part as a group member but he picked the team he though was right and credit to him.”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      SAK BACK, NO JACK
      Gary Neville has picked his England XI for the Euro 2020 semi-final clash with Denmark – with Jack Grealish yet again missing out, writes DAVE FRASER.
      The Three Lions demolished Ukraine 4-0 in their quarter-final clash in Rome with Jadon Sancho given his first start of the tournament.
      The new Manchester United star, 21, looked lively throughout the game and gave England a new dimension in attack – despite being given a bizarrely low 4/10 match rating by L’Equipe.
      Fans have been crying out for Gareth Southgate to utilise Grealish more having played just 115 minutes across England’s five games.
      But Neville reckons the Three Lions boss should turn back to Bukayo Saka over Grealish or Sancho for the semi-final showdown against Denmark.
      The Arsenal whiz, 19, starred in wins over Czech Republic and Germany but missed the Ukraine demolition job with a minor knock.
      And Neville wants him back on the right-wing for the last-four clash at Wembley on Wednesday night.

      UKRAINE FEEL ENGLAND’S FURY
      Tyson Fury’s reaction to England’s win!
      iv not seen a beat down over Ukraine 🇺🇦 like this since Düsseldorf 28 November 2015. 😘— TYSON FURY (@Tyson_Fury) July 3, 2021

      ROAD TO WEMBLEY
      England are one game away from the Euros final at Wembley!

      SANTASTIC
      Rio Ferdinand has made a bold prediction for Jadon Sancho’s first season at Man Utd.
      Sancho started his first game a major international tournament for England last night in a 4-0 win.
      And his dazzling footwork left United fans in awe.
      Club legend Ferdinand spoke highly of Sancho on the BBC’s coverage of the game.
      He said: “I’ll tell you one thing, next season at Man United, he’ll have people off their seats.
      “There’s moments in this game where he draws your breath and you think, ‘Oh, wow, that’s different’ — and he’s a fabulous talent, we know that, but mentally he’s very strong and he’s got a desire to be as good as he can be.
      “Players that can up the potential of the game are different and they bring something different to your team in the way that he does. 
      “This is his first game, by the way, in the tournament, and he comes in and plays the way he did and creates moments, it shows you the talent that is there.”

      BACK OF THE NET
      Morata has his fair share of goals for Spain, but can he guess who these infamous Spanish goal-scorers are?

      LAMPARD ON SHAW
      England and Chelsea legend Frank Lampard has praised Man Utd left-back Luke Shaw for his fantastic form.
      Shaw registered two more assists last night against Ukraine in England’s 4-0 win.
      Speaking after the game, Lampard said: “Something has clicked with him in the last 18 months.
      “Sometimes you can’t control injury stuff, he wasn’t in the best of shape. Now he can do what you want from him.”
      HAMMER TIME
      After England beat Ukraine last night, Declan Rice is the last West Ham player standing at Euro 2020.
      Andriy Yarmolenko (Ukraine), Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal (Czech Republic) were knocked out of the competition yesterday.

      TOP PICK
      England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has matched Iker Casillas’ clean sheet record at the European Championships, writes THOMAS BLOW.
      The Everton stopper hasn’t conceded in his five matches at this summer’s tournament, matching the record Casillas set in 2012.
      Although he didn’t have his best game against Ukraine in their quarter-final clash, Pickford is enjoying an impressive Euros campaign.
      The 27-year-old has looked assured in net for England and made a couple of excellent saves against Germany at Wembley.
      Legendary goalkeeper Casillas kept five clean sheets at Euro 2012 – including in the final against Italy – as Spain won the tournament.
      If Pickford manages to keep Denmark at bay in London on Wednesday he will become the first stopper to record six clean sheets in the competition’s 61-year history.

      ON THIS DAY
      On this day 17 years ago, Greece shocked Europe and won Euro 2004.

      CAPTAIN KANE
      Harry Kane got off to a poor start at Euro 2020, but has since scored three in his last two.
      And left-back Luke Shaw has registered three assists.

      ‘LONG TIME COMING’ 
      England midfielder Jordan Henderson finally scored his first international goal after 62 appearances.
      And Henderson couldn’t hide his excitement. 
      He said: “It’s about time, it’s been a long time coming.
      “I have felt one coming and thankfully I’ve managed to get on the scoresheet.
      “I’m delighted for the lads because overall the performance was fantastic and will give us good momentum going into the next game.
      “I always felt it would come eventually, but I always try to contribute the best I can on the pitch, I never really think about that I need to score goals.
      “There are a lot of other players to do that. I need to concentrate on my job on the pitch, what I need to do, what the coaching staff and payers need me to do.
      “Of course I would have liked to have scored more goals but I can’t complain. I’m here, contributing and managed to get on the scoresheet.”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      FINAL FOUR
      Italy, Spain, England and Denmark are the last four teams in the competition.
      Italy play Spain at Wembley on Tuesday night.
      And England return to Wembley to face Denmark in the second semi-final on Wednesday.

      KANTE THE KEY TO UNLOCKING POGBA
      Man Utd and England legend Wayne Rooney believes that Paul Pogba having N’Golo Kante next to him, allowed him to express himself.
      Pogba played in a slightly deeper role for France at Euro 2020 and played some wonderful balls into Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema. 
      Speaking in his Times column, Rooney said: “Like a lot of people, I fancied the French to be champions and as a team they were a massive disappointment.
      “That was a particular shame for Paul Pogba. He had been the player of the tournament until they went out.
      “Some of the passes Paul played for Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe were incredible. 
      “It helped him to have N’Golo Kante as his midfield partner but I think the biggest reason that Paul’s performances were so good was his positioning.
      “In all France’s games, he was playing deeper than we normally see him for Manchester United and this meant that he was able to pick the ball up in areas of the pitch where he had the time and room to pick a pass.”
      Wayne Rooney is now boss of Derby CountyCredit: Getty
      ‘ONE OF THE PLAYERS’ OF EURO 2020
      Arsenal legend Ian Wright has praised potential Arsenal target Raheem Sterling as “one of the players” of Euro 2020.
      Sterling has scored three goals for England and set up Harry Kane’s opener yesterday night.
      Wright said: “Raheem Sterling is one of the players of the tournament.
      “He finds Harry Kane with a brilliant pass (for the opening goal).
      “He comes inside. We need players who can run with the ball, progress the ball, into Harry Kane who can take our half-chances. That’s a half-chance.”
      ‘MAN MOUNTAIN’
      England and Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand heaped praise on Man Utd club captain Harry Maguire.
      Speaking after the game, he said: “He (Maguire) brings composure and sometimes the team looks different when someone wants the ball. 
      “He wants to get on the ball and take pressure off the other players. The team breathes more when he’s in the team.
      “They are a stronger team and a better when he’s there. He’s so comfortable in international football, some players prefer club level or playing for their country.
      “In an England shirt he looks like a man mountain. He comes out and just picks the right passes.
      “You saw in his first game back he was threading balls in the lines. He brings someone in and then plays it through.
      “That’s the difference between him and other centre-backs.”
      YOU SHALL NOT PASS
      England have kept several clean sheets in a row, and five at Euro 2020!
      Some unsung heroes have helped the Three Lions get the job done. Massive achievement.
      History-makers. The #ThreeLions have kept 7️⃣ consecutive clean sheets for the first time in our history, becoming the only team not to concede a goal in the first 5️⃣ games of a European Championship finals. pic.twitter.com/btS9sh1b7x— England (@England) July 4, 2021

      WON IN ROME
      England fans were in dreamland last night after the Three Lions scored FOUR times to set up a historic semi-final.
      Millions partied deep into the night in packed pubs, parks and streets across the country – while 5,000 Three Lions fans roared on the team in Rome.
      Jubilant fans sprayed booze and danced on tables as Gareth Southgate’s side cruised to their first Euro’s semi-final in 25 years.
      The win set up a titanic clash with Denmark at Wembley in front of a boosted home crowd of 60,000 on Wednesday night – and PM Boris Johnson hailed an “outstanding performance”.

      GOOD MORNING EUROS FANS
      Harry Kane has set his sights on reaching the final after his two goals helped England beat Ukraine 4-0 in the Euro 2020 quarter-finals.
      He said on BBC One: “What a great performance in a big game.
      “We were favourites; there was a lot of pressure and a lot of expectations. The performance was top-drawer. Another clean sheet, four goals, it was a perfect night for us.
      “We’re building on [clean sheets]. We have a great unit here from front to back. It’s a vital part of winning games and tournaments.
      “We’ve got a big semi-final coming up. We’re on the right path.
      “It’s where we wanted to be. We set out a vision before the World Cup of what we want to achieve. We are knocking it off step by step.
      “The World Cup was great but we fell short; we had a good run in the Nations League. We’re in another semi-final.
      “Now it’s about getting over the line, the next step that we have got to do on Wednesday.”
      Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho is on his way to Manchester United but right now he is only focusing on England.
      Sancho told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I’m feeling over the moon. Today was must-win and I’m just happy to have got an opportunity to play. This is a special moment for me.
      “Every time I haven’t been playing I’ve been going back to training and been giving it everything.
      “I’ve just been focusing on myself while I’ve been at England. I’ve always been ready if I needed to come on.
      “We knew today was going to be a big game, Ukraine are a very good side. I’m delighted.
      “To be fair, I don’t want to talk about Manchester United. Right now I just want to focus on England.”
      England will now face Denmark on Wednesday after they beat the Czech Republic 2-1 and manager Gareth Southgate paid tribute to all of his players, including the substitutes.
      Southgate told BBC One: “The players have been fantastic. To play as well as they did in a game with so much resting on it was impressive.
      “It’s a strange feeling. I’m thinking of the lads we didn’t get on the pitch – Conor Coady, Ben Chilwell, Sam Johnstone, Aaron Ramsdale, they’re the ones making this team successful. The spirit in the group is phenomenal.
      “Whoever comes in does the job, whoever isn’t in – it is really difficult to leave three out of the matchday squad – the squad mentality is fantastic. That’s uppermost in my mind, looking after those guys.
      “I’m spending more energy worrying about the three I have to leave out because they’re all good players. None of them deserve to be left out.
      “They’re all giving everything in training. None of it is because I don’t think they’re up to the level but we have to make the decisions.”
      BAE-DON
      Jadon Sancho was praised by BBC pundits after an impressive first half display against Ukraine.
      During the half-time break, Match of the Day host Gary Lineker said: “He’s a player that obviously a lot of people at home wouldn’t have seen too frequently because he’s been playing at Dortmund.
      “But I think it’s quite clear to see Manchester United have got something special.”
      And ex-United captain Rio Ferdinand responded: “Yes, they have.
      “This isn’t a surprise, this isn’t something that I would just think, ‘This is what he does, is it?’
      “This is what German fans have been seeing for three years in the Bundesliga.”
      ENGLAND 4 UKRAINE 0
      Three years ago, England fell back in love with its football team in a joyous, but ultimately doomed, summer romance.
      Yet this march to a major tournament has been far more impressive than that Russian odyssey at the 2018 World Cup.
      Read more HERE.

      BALLON SHAW
      Luke Shaw has the second most assists in the delayed European Championships and matched a knockout game record.
      The Manchester United left-back has been an instrumental part of Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions during the tournament.
      And after setting up United team-mate Harry Maguire and captain Harry Kane, he took his Euros assists tally up to three.
      He also helped Raheem Sterling open the scoring against Germany in the 2-0, last 16 win.
      Only Switzerland’s Steven Zuber is ahead of him with one more assist.
      TO BE FRANK
      Frank Lampard hailed Kalvin Phillips ‘the machine’ and said the Leeds man must be ‘so thankful’ to Marcelo Bielsa.
      After watching a montage of him and Declan Rice shutting Germany out, the Chelsea legend said: “You can always improve but you could take those clips Rio’s shown there and tell any young midfield player ‘if you’re playing in a two, this is how you do it’.
      “Because there’s a lot of unselfish work that maybe you don’t see. There’s a lot of miles in there.
      “Phillips must be so thankful to Bielsa for what he’s done to him at Leeds.
      “He’s turned into this machine who can play as a No6 with discipline, he can play higher up the pitch and it’s not a problem for him.
      “And Rice is pretty similar and they’re both comfortable on the ball.”
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      England 4-0 Ukraine LIVE REACTION: Rampant Three Lions storm into last-four after goals from Kane, Henderson and Maguire

      by

      ENGLAND are into the semi-finals of Euro 2020 after a sensational performance against Ukraine. It was a night to remember for the Three Lions in Rome, as Harry Kane netted twice to send them roaring into the semi-finals.
      England will now take on Denmark this coming Wednesday after the Danes edged out the Czech Republic.
      Follow ALL the latest reaction with our live blog below…
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      BEST ENG SHOW
      SunSport readers have voted England’s Euro 2020 drubbing of Ukraine as their THIRD best match of the last 25 years.
      But the 4-0 demolition job in Rome is still MILES off readers’ favourite game.
      Gareth Southgate produced yet another tactical masterclass as England booked their place in the semi-finals.
      Harry Kane scored twice – with Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson also finding the net – as the Three Lions recorded their biggest-ever margin of victory in a major tournament knockout game.
      The 4-0 victory eclipsed 3-0 wins over Denmark and Paraguay at the 2002 and 1986 World Cups respectively.
      The Roman battering was also the first time England have scored four goals in a knockout game since the 1966 World Cup final win over West Germany.

      ZIZOU ARE YOU?
      Luke Shaw delivered two assists for England in the space of three minutes and 51 seconds at Euro 2020
      And that was more than French legend Zinedine Zidane managed in 14 appearances at the European Championships.
      Shaw set up the second goal for Harry Maguire before crossing for Harry Kane to make it 3-0 in the 4-0 win over Ukraine in the quarter-finals.
      Told about his achievement of overtaking Zidane’s contributions at a Euro, Shaw said: “A very strange stat! A nice one, I think.
      “Obviously, Zidane was one of the best midfielders ever and I can’t compare to him.
      “But the most important thing for me was reaching the semi-final, getting another game at Wembley in front of our own crowd and hopefully making them happy again.”
      SOUTHGATE YOU’RE THE ONE
      Stuart Pearce, former England international and team-mate of Gareth Southgate, has praised his pal for his decision making so far at Euro 2020.
      Pearce cleared up a common misconception about Southgate.
      Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “There was a misconception, potentially, and I’m talking from a footballing aspect, that he’s a soft touch, or whatever.
      “I don’t think there is now because people in the game have [recognised] he’ll make the tough judgement calls and I’ll give you one or two real examples.
      “He put Henderson in the group where a lot of people were saying he shouldn’t be, he’s not good enough for one reason, not fit enough. You can’t take injured players.
      “He knew the worth of Henderson [and Harry Maguire], you saw that last night. Both on the score sheet. I’m absolutely delighted for both of them.
      “But, because he knows what they both give the group he was prepared to wait. Not a popular choice in some quarters.
      “Going into the first game, by the way, there was a lot of people shouting and hollering and rattling about Sterling shouldn’t be playing. Gareth knew his worth.
      “All those people have pulled their necks in now because Sterling has probably carried this team, by the way.
      “He [Southgate] has made judgement calls.
      “Everyone wants Grealish and Foden in, popular choices, they are the sexy choices, but he hasn’t done that all the time. They have played their part as a group member but he picked the team he though was right and credit to him.”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      SAK BACK, NO JACK
      Gary Neville has picked his England XI for the Euro 2020 semi-final clash with Denmark – with Jack Grealish yet again missing out, writes DAVE FRASER.
      The Three Lions demolished Ukraine 4-0 in their quarter-final clash in Rome with Jadon Sancho given his first start of the tournament.
      The new Manchester United star, 21, looked lively throughout the game and gave England a new dimension in attack – despite being given a bizarrely low 4/10 match rating by L’Equipe.
      Fans have been crying out for Gareth Southgate to utilise Grealish more having played just 115 minutes across England’s five games.
      But Neville reckons the Three Lions boss should turn back to Bukayo Saka over Grealish or Sancho for the semi-final showdown against Denmark.
      The Arsenal whiz, 19, starred in wins over Czech Republic and Germany but missed the Ukraine demolition job with a minor knock.
      And Neville wants him back on the right-wing for the last-four clash at Wembley on Wednesday night.

      LONDON CALLING
      Hundreds of England fans took to the streets after last night’s thumping win over Ukraine.
      Will the Three Lions reach the final next Wednesday?
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      SANTASTIC
      Rio Ferdinand has made a bold prediction for Jadon Sancho’s first season at Man Utd.
      Sancho started his first game a major international tournament for England last night in a 4-0 win.
      And his dazzling footwork left United fans in awe.
      Club legend Ferdinand spoke highly of Sancho on the BBC’s coverage of the game.
      He said: “I’ll tell you one thing, next season at Man United, he’ll have people off their seats.
      “There’s moments in this game where he draws your breath and you think, ‘Oh, wow, that’s different’ — and he’s a fabulous talent, we know that, but mentally he’s very strong and he’s got a desire to be as good as he can be.
      “Players that can up the potential of the game are different and they bring something different to your team in the way that he does. 
      “This is his first game, by the way, in the tournament, and he comes in and plays the way he did and creates moments, it shows you the talent that is there.”

      THREE YEARS LATER
      Harry Maguire has scored at back-to-back major international tournaments for England.

      LAMPARD ON SHAW
      England and Chelsea legend Frank Lampard has praised Man Utd left-back Luke Shaw for his fantastic form.
      Shaw registered two more assists last night against Ukraine in England’s 4-0 win.
      Speaking after the game, Lampard said: “Something has clicked with him in the last 18 months.
      “Sometimes you can’t control injury stuff, he wasn’t in the best of shape. Now he can do what you want from him.”
      THREE LIONS RUN RIOT
      Goals from captain Kane, Maguire and Henderson seed a 4-0 win in Rome against Ukraine.
      England will now face Denmark next Wednesday at Wembley in the semi-final.

      FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING
      Jordan Henderson got his first England goal in 62 appearances.

      CAPTAIN KANE
      Harry Kane got off to a poor start at Euro 2020, but has since scored three in his last two.
      And left-back Luke Shaw has registered three assists.

      ‘LONG TIME COMING’
      England midfielder Jordan Henderson finally scored his first international goal after 62 appearances.
      And Henderson couldn’t hide his excitement.
      He said: “It’s about time, it’s been a long time coming.
      “I have felt one coming and thankfully I’ve managed to get on the scoresheet.
      “I’m delighted for the lads because overall the performance was fantastic and will give us good momentum going into the next game.
      “I always felt it would come eventually, but I always try to contribute the best I can on the pitch, I never really think about that I need to score goals.
      “There are a lot of other players to do that. I need to concentrate on my job on the pitch, what I need to do, what the coaching staff and payers need me to do.
      “Of course I would have liked to have scored more goals but I can’t complain. I’m here, contributing and managed to get on the scoresheet.”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      CHOKEHOLD
      Kane had Rice gasping for air!

      ‘ONE OF THE PLAYERS’ OF EURO 2020
      Arsenal legend Ian Wright has praised potential Arsenal target Raheem Sterling as “one of the players” of Euro 2020.
      Sterling has scored three goals for England and set up Harry Kane’s opener yesterday night.
      Wright said: “Raheem Sterling is one of the players of the tournament.
      “He finds Harry Kane with a brilliant pass (for the opening goal).
      “He comes inside. We need players who can run with the ball, progress the ball, into Harry Kane who can take our half-chances. That’s a half-chance.”
      ‘MAN MOUNTAIN’
      England and Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand heaped praise on Man Utd club captain Harry Maguire. 
      Speaking after the game, he said: “He (Maguire) brings composure and sometimes the team looks different when someone wants the ball. 
      “He wants to get on the ball and take pressure off the other players. The team breathes more when he’s in the team. 
      “They are a stronger team and a better when he’s there. He’s so comfortable in international football, some players prefer club level or playing for their country.
      “In an England shirt he looks like a man mountain. He comes out and just picks the right passes. 
      “You saw in his first game back he was threading balls in the lines. He brings someone in and then plays it through. 
      “That’s the difference between him and other centre-backs.”
      ARE YOU SHAW?
      Luke Shaw is finally showing the promise that earned him the big move from Southampton to Man Utd.
      And he’s replicating it well for England, proving to be one of the Three Lions’ most important players.
      Luke Shaw at #EURO2020 [#ENG rank]:21 passes into the box [🥇]8 chances created [🥇]5 chances created from open play [🥇]4 big chances created [🥇]3 assists [🥇]1.57 xA [🥇]Outstanding. 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/S2KCjb3mCE— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) July 3, 2021

      WON IN ROME
      England fans were in dreamland last night after the Three Lions scored FOUR times to set up a historic semi-final.
      Millions partied deep into the night in packed pubs, parks and streets across the country – while 5,000 Three Lions fans roared on the team in Rome.
      Jubilant fans sprayed booze and danced on tables as Gareth Southgate’s side cruised to their first Euro’s semi-final in 25 years.
      The win set up a titanic clash with Denmark at Wembley in front of a boosted home crowd of 60,000 on Wednesday night – and PM Boris Johnson hailed an “outstanding performance”.

      UNSUNG HEROES
      Gareth Southgate has paid tribute to the England stars who have yet to feature at Euro 2020.
      He said: “It’s enjoyable but immediately I’m thinking about the players that I didn’t get on the pitch because the likes of Conor Coady, Ben Chilwell, Aaron Ramsdale, Sam Johnstone, Ben White.
      “We’ve had 21 on the pitch but those guys have been as important. The spirit that they’ve created, the togetherness.
      “I regret not getting them on the field and I hate this thing of having to leave three out every match.
      “It takes more energy from me than anything else because none of them deserve to be out of the 26.
      “The fact that the guys have shown the respect that they’ve shown is why we’re in the position that we’re in.”
      NOT DANE YET
      England will need to be at their best to get past Denmark in the Euro 2020 semi-final, Gareth Southgate has said.
      The Three Lions boss commented:
      “They beat us in the autumn, we only drew to them in Copenhagen [in the Nations League]. They’re a very underestimated team.
      “As a football nation they’ve done incredibly well, they’ve produced so many good players considering their population.
      “This is going to be a really tough test and we’ll have to be at our best to get through it.”

      SOUTHGATE PRAISE
      England manager Gareth Southgate paid tribute to all of his players, including the substitutes.
      Southgate told BBC One: “The players have been fantastic. To play as well as they did in a game with so much resting on it was impressive.
      “It’s a strange feeling. I’m thinking of the lads we didn’t get on the pitch – Conor Coady, Ben Chilwell, Sam Johnstone, Aaron Ramsdale, they’re the ones making this team successful. The spirit in the group is phenomenal.
      “Whoever comes in does the job, wheoever isn’t in – it is really difficult to leave three out of the matchday squad – the squad mentality is fantastic. That’s uppermost in my mind, looking after those guys.
      “I’m spending more energy worrying about the three I have to leave out because they’re all good players. None of them deserve to be left out. They’re all giving everything in training. None of it is because I don’t think they’re up to the level but we have to make the decisions. We have to make the right call for the right game with the right system. All of the players have been brilliant, tonight all the way through the group they’ve been fantastic”
      GETTY IMAGES
      SANCHO REACTS
      Jadon Sancho is on his way to Manchester United but right now he is only focusing on England.
      Sancho told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I’m feeling over the moon. Today was must-win and I’m just happy to have got an opportunity to play. This is a special moment for me.
      “Every time I haven’t been playing I’ve been going back to training and been giving it everything.
      “I’ve just been focusing on myself while I’ve been at England. I’ve always been ready if I needed to come on.
      “We knew today was going to be a big game, Ukraine are a very good side. I’m delighted.
      “To be fair, I don’t want to talk about Manchester United. Right now I just want to focus on England”
      GETTY IMAGES
      KANE SPEAKS
      England superstar Harry Kane admits the team is on the right path but insists the job is not yet done.
      Kane told BBC One: “What a great performance in a big game.
      “We were favourites, there was a lot of pressure and a lot of expectations. The performance was top-drawer. Another clean sheet, four goals, it was a perfect night for us.
      “We’re building on [clean sheets]. We have a great unit here from front to back. It’s a vital part of winning games and tournaments.
      “We’ve got a big semi-final coming up. We’re on the right path.
      “It’s where we wanted to be. We set out a vision before the World Cup of what we want to achieve. We are knocking it off step by step. The World Cup was great but we fell short, we had a good run in the Nations League. We’re in another semi-final.
      “Now it’s about getting over the line, the next step that we have got to do on Wednesday.
      “We have more experience [than 2018]. We’ve been playing for our clubs in big games – Champions League finals, Premier League title races. We’re looking confident. Hopefully we can continue that.
      “The job is not done yet. There’s a lot more football to play.
      “It’s always nice to score early in a game. It’s a great feeling to help the team. There was a lot of talk about me and my performances. But I’m just ready for the next game and try to lead this team to the European final”
      GETTY IMAGES
      SHEAR THING
      Alan Shearer praised Harry Kane, who equalled him on international goals in major tournaments after scoring his ninth cracker.
      Shearer is also impressed with England manager Gareth Southgate’s decisions.
      The Premier League Hall of Famer told BBC: “It is incredible the difference in Harry Kane. You can see he has a spring in his step.
      “In the first minute of this game he picked up the ball 40 or 50 yards and pinged it and you thought, yes that will do. Then he scored soon after.
      “Another tick for Gareth Southgate – he has come up with another formation, he has put in Jadon Sancho and all his decisions again have worked perfectly.
      “He is not influenced by what goes on outside the camp. He is making all of the decision and he is making all of the right decisions”
      HENDERSON BUZZ
      England star Jordan Henderson is ecstatic with the big win over Ukraine that sent the Three Lions through to the semi-finals.
      But Henderson is also over the moon with the fact that he finally scored his first ever international goal after 62 attempts.
      The midfielder netted the fourth goal of the night and had no doubt it would ultimately happen one day.
      Find out what the Liverpool ace had to say:

      FERDINAND REACTION
      Rio Ferdinand hailed Manchester United star Harry Maguire’s performance and claimed he is a special centre-back.
      Ferdinand told BBC: “Harry Maguire looks so comfortable at international football.
      “In an England shirt he looks like a man mountain to me. He comes out with the ball and picks the right passes.
      “He always tries to come out, bring someone to him and then play the ball and that is the difference, he wants to commit someone and that is the difference between him and other centre-backs”
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      Lionel Messi FREE AGENT, Alderweireld set to leave Tottenham EXCLUSIVE, Trincao joins Wolves, Chelsea latest news

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      LIONEL MESSI helped Argentina reach the semi-finals of the Copa America – but is still a free agent as his Barcelona contract situation drags on.Elsewhere, Toby Alderweireld is set to leave Tottenham while we’ve an important update on Sergio Ramos.
      And Erling Haaland remains a summer transfer target for Chelsea.
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      Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
      SANCH-NO DISTRACTIONS
      Jadon Sancho insists he is fully focused on England – despite his £73million transfer to Manchester United.
      The winger, 21, was handed a shock start as the Three Lions crushed Ukraine 4-0 to reach the semi-finals of Euro 2020 barely 48 hours after his Old Trafford switch was announced.
      Sancho was one of the stars of the show with a strong performance, despite only featuring for six minutes in the tournament prior to his Rome display.
      And speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live afterwards, he confirmed his sole attention is on all matters Three Lions with a semi-final against Denmark at Wembley on Wednesday.
      The ex-Manchester City youngster said: “To be fair, I don’t want to talk about Manchester United.
      “Right now I just want to focus on England.
      “I’ve just been focusing on myself while I’ve been at England. I’ve always been ready if I needed to come on.”
      NEW TARGETS
      Exclusive: Newcastle look like they will move out Swedish right-back Emil Krafth because his first-team chances will probably be limited.
      Krafth, 26, had the chance to go in the January window but wanted to stay on.
      However, he could drop even further down the list as boss Steve Bruce looks for new faces.
      Newcastle have been wading through their target list after a couple of relatively quiet years in the market.
      And a remarkable 44 names were discussed at a recent scouts meeting.
      The Toon will also look to free up some more space from their books by releasing forgotten man Henri Saivet.
      UNDER SIGNS
      Marseille have completed the loan signing of Roma winger Cengiz Under.
      The Turkey international spent last season on loan at FA Cup winners Leicester City.
      But failed to impress.
      ┈┈┈┈╭╯╰╰╰╰╰╮┈┈┈┈┈┈┈▕╭▅╮╭▅╮▏┈┈┈┈▕▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▏┈╭━╮ @cengizunder ╭━╮┃┳╯ ┈est Olympien┈ ╰┳┃┃┣▏ ┈┈ 🔵🇹🇷⚪ ┈┈▕┫┃╰▕▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▂▏╯pic.twitter.com/Avno0JiUdI— Olympique de Marseille 🇬🇧 🇺🇸 (@OM_English) July 4, 2021

      POG TOP
      Man Utd want to tie midfielder Paul Pogba down to a new deal.
      The France international is entering the final year of his contract and will be able to make pre-agreements with clubs from January.
      But if Pogba does sign a new deal keeping him at Old Trafford, he would most likely become the top earner at the club – leapfrogging De Gea.
      The wages of Manchester United’s current players
      QUITE FRANK
      Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt have made a bi for AC Milan talent Jens Petter Hauge.
      The bid is believed to be in the region of 7m/8m Euros, according to Fabrizio Romano.
      However, AC Milan want more money for the player.
      Frankfurt have also completed all of the relevant paperwork to sign Rafael Santos Borre, who will join as a free agent.
      Eintracht Frankfurt made an official bid around €7/8m to sign Jens Petter Hauge. AC Milan want more to sell the Norwegian talent. Talks ongoing. 🔴🇳🇴 #EintrachtEintracht board also signed and completed all paperworks for Rafael Santos Borré – done deal, he joins as free agent.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 4, 2021

      NOT SO BAD
      Brighton’s Mat Ryan is close to joining Spanish side Real Sociedad, according to Sky Sports.
      The goalkeeper spent last season on loan at Premier League big boys Arsenal.
      But failed to impress enough to earn himself a permanent transfer to north London.
      Personal terms have been agreed, and a medical is due to be completed next week.
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      OPTION TO BUY
      Marseille will have an option to buy in William Saliba’s loan deal, according to reports. 
      The Arsenal defender is set to move back to France after failing to make a single first team appearance.
      And with the Gunners planning on bringing in Brighton’s Ben White for a rumoured £50m, Saliba’s minutes in north London look limited. 
      According to L’Equipe, Marseille, will have an option to buy for the young defender.
      And Marseille could pick Saliba up for less than £10m if they choose to make the deal permanent.
      BREAKING: PALACE ANNOUNCE VIEIRA
      Crystal Palace have announced Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira as their new manager.
      The Frenchman has signed a contract keeping him at the club until 2024.
      𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 🦅We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Patrick Vieira as our new manager until 2024 ✍️#CPFC | https://t.co/utMcYSDkhb— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) July 4, 2021

      LOAN RANGER
      Old Trafford outcast Donny van de Beek could have a pivotal role in Manchester United’s bid to land Raphael Varane, writes PHIL THOMAS.
      United have held initial talks with Real Madrid about signing the French centre-back, who would cost around £50million.
      But Real are also keen on taking Van de Beek, 24, to the Bernabeu on a year-long loan, with a commitment to buy 12 months down the line.
      And United believe that gives them a key bargaining tool in their pursuit of Varane, who tops their list of centre-back targets.
      Varane, 28, has one more season left on his deal and can sign a pre-contract agreement in January.
      As much as the Spanish giants would love to keep him, they also do not  want to lose him on a free — especially as they are in such a cash-strapped state at the moment. 
      So United are more likely to play ball over Van de Beek, if it gives them a little wriggle room in signing Varane, who is also on Paris Saint-Germain’s radar.

      PAT’S BACK
      Patrick Vieira will be the new Crystal Palace manager, agreeing to a three-year deal.

      NOT GUNNER RETURN
      It looks like Martin Odegaard will not return to the Emirates next season.
      But the Real Madrid winger expressed his gratitude to Arsenal on Instagram.
      He captioned a post of him playing for the Gunners; “Arsenal , thank you so much for these 6 months. 
      “My time with the Arsenal family will always hold a special place in my heart.
      “I wanna thank everyone in and around the club for the way you made me feel like a part of the family since the first day. 
      “Special thanks to the fans, even without you guys at the stadium for the majority of the season, I felt you with me at all times.
      “A huge thank you to the boss and his staff for everything I’ve learned during my stay. 
      “Thank you also to all my teammates for such a great time on and off the pitch. Will miss you all.
      “Thank you, gunners family. Always in my heart.”

      BRIGHTON EYE JAMES
      Brighton are exploring the possibility of signing Dan James from Man Utd.
      James had a tough season for the Red Devils, struggling to break into the first team.
      And with game time limited, James could be temped to move down south.
      According to SunSport’s Alan Nixon, Brighton boss Graham Potter wants to nab James – who he’s managed before – and Joe Rodon from Tottenham.
      THAT DOES THE TRICK
      Wolves have pulled off the signing of Francisco Trincao from Barcelona.
      The highly rated Portuguese winger will join the Premier League outfit on loan for the 2021-22 season.
      What a signing.

      SAM’S THE MAN
      Arsenal have identified West Brom and England goalkeeper Sam Johnstone as a transfer target. 
      According to the Daily Star, Arsenal have been put off by Sheffield United’s high valuation of Aaron Ramsdale.
      And the Gunners have now switched their attention to Johnstone who could be available for less than £20m
      The Blades were demanding upwards of £35m to sign Ramsdale, putting off any interest.
      Ramsdale (left) and Johnstone (right)Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      ‘ONE OF THE PLAYERS’ OF EURO 2020
      Arsenal legend Ian Wright has praised potential Arsenal target Raheem Sterling as “one of the players” of Euro 2020.
      Sterling has scored three goals for England and set up Harry Kane’s opener yesterday night.
      Wright said: “Raheem Sterling is one of the players of the tournament.
      “He finds Harry Kane with a brilliant pass (for the opening goal).
      “He comes inside. We need players who can run with the ball, progress the ball, into Harry Kane who can take our half-chances. That’s a half-chance.”
      GUNNERS FAN
      West Ham will have to move fast to sign Antonin Barak from Hellas Verona. 
      The attacking midfielder is a life-long Arsenal fan, and that could be problematic. 
      He told Gazzetta dello Sport in 2017: “I was and still am an Arsenal fan. 
      “I know that I need to develop, and it doesn’t bother me where I end up, we’ll see. 
      “In Europe, Arsenal and Barcelona appeal to me.”
      EXCLUSIVE: TOBY OR NOT TO BE
      Tottenham are ready to grant Toby Alderweireld a dream move back to the Low Countries – but not for a low fee, writes PAUL JIGGINS.
      The Belgium defender, 32, wants to quit Spurs for either his homeland or Holland.
      He is believed to have told the North Londoners this before they appointed Nuno Espirito Santo as boss this week.
      The club are ready to listen to offers for Alderweireld as new boss Nuno and recently appointed recruitment guru Fabio Paratici plan to kick off the new era in N17 with a defensive shake-up.
      The former Ajax and Atletico ace has two years remaining on his current £100,000-a-week contract.
      SUMMER SIGNINGS
      Neymar is the biggest transfer of all time, and it doesn’t look like it’ll be topped!

      GOOD MORNING FOOTBALL FANS
      SunSport’s Alan Nixon has revealed that Graham Potter aims to nab his former players Dan James and Joe Rodon.
      The Brighton manager hopes to get the nod to land speedy winger James this summer.
      The Welsh midfielder, 23, has seen his chances of a game at Manchester United hit hard by the £73million arrival of Jadon Sancho.
      As well as James, Potter is on alert for his fellow Welshman, Rodon.
      The Tottenham centre-half, also 23, could be available with the North Londoners closing in on Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu.
      James came to prominence at Swansea under Potter, who used his blistering pace to lethal effect.
      The winger would be given the games he needs at this stage of his career on the south coast.
      Meanwhile, SunSport’s Phil Thomas reports that Old Trafford outcast Donny van de Beek could have a pivotal role in Manchester United’s bid to land Raphael Varane.
      United have held initial talks with Real Madrid about signing the French centre-back, who would cost around £50million.
      But Real are also keen on taking Van de Beek, 24, to the Bernabeu on a year-long loan, with a commitment to buy 12 months down the line.
      And United believe that gives them a key bargaining tool in their pursuit of Varane, who tops their list of centre-back targets.
      Varane, 28, has one more season left on his deal and can sign a pre-contract agreement in January.
      As much as the Spanish giants would love to keep him, they also do not want to lose him on a free — especially as they are in such a cash-strapped state at the moment.
      So United are more likely to play ball over Van de Beek, if it gives them a little wriggle room in signing Varane, who is also on Paris Saint-Germain’s radar.
      Ironically the Red Devils pipped Real to sign the Dutch midfielder in a £35m move from Ajax last summer.
      And finally, Leeds United are close to completing a deal for Junior Firpo but the move is being held up, according to reports.
      A deal has been agreed with Barcelona for his transfer but Covid protocols have halted progress after he travelled to England.
      Firpo is currently in quarantine ahead of undergoing a medical at Thorp Arch.
      According to Mundo Deportivo, Leeds have not specified when the medical will take place.
      And since that is the next stage in the transfer proceeding, there has been a delay in wrapping up a deal for the defender.
      The Whites have reportedly had a bid worth £13m accepted for the 24-year-old, who will sign a four-year deal.
      POTT’S STARS
      Exclusive by Alan Nixon: Graham Potter aims to nab his former players Dan James and Joe Rodon.
      The Brighton manager hopes to get the nod to land speedy winger James this summer.
      The Welsh midfielder, 23, has seen his chances of a game at Manchester United hit hard by the £73million arrival of Jadon Sancho.
      As well as James, Potter is on alert for his fellow Welshman, Rodon.
      The Tottenham centre-half, also 23, could be available with the North Londoners closing in on Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu.
      James came to prominence at Swansea under Potter, who used his blistering pace to lethal effect.
      The winger would be given the games he needs at this stage of his career on the south coast.

      CASE FOR DEFENCE
      Raphael Varane will fix ‘top-heavy’ Manchester United and solve their defensive woes.
      That’s according to Andros Townsend, who is back Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to pull off a major transfer coup by signing Varane from Real Madrid.
      Townsend told TalkSport: “If you look at United’s team, they are very top-heavy.
      “They have a lot of forward options and Sancho will give them another.
      “But Varane, if he does come in, will solidify the back four.
      “He will give them extra strength, extra pace, and somebody of his calibre is more suited to the Premier League.
      “He’s big, he’s strong, he’s quick and I definitely think Varane takes them closer to where they want to be.”
      REAL DEAL
      Manchester United are considering a major swap deal involving Paul Pogba and Real Madrid star Raphael Varane, reports suggest.
      United are on the verge of completing Jadon Sancho’s move to Old Trafford from Borussia Dortmund and will then focus on signing a new centre-back.
      Varane appears to be the Red Devils’ top target as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a highly-rated defender to link up with Harry Maguire at the back.
      According to AS, however, the Manchester giants are believed to have splashed almost €100million (£86m) for Sancho already.
      That means they are only willing to spend a maximum of €45m (£39m), plus add-ons.
      This is a sum far short of the €70m (£60m) that Real are looking to recoup for the France international, even though his contract runs out next year.
      CECH’S MATE
      Chelsea are targeting Werder Bremen goalkeeper Jiri Pavlenka, according to reports.
      And Blues legend and technical adviser Petr Cech is central to a potential move.
      Pavlenka, 29, has been central to the Czech Republic’s impressive performance at Euro 2020.
      And Cech is believed to be a fan of his fellow countryman.
      So much so, that Deichstube claim that he is ‘campaigning’ for Chelsea to sign him.
      They also reckon that Cech’s word ‘carries a lot of weight’ among the Blues’ hierarchy.

      TONI TIME
      Toni Kroos has revealed wants to end his illustrious playing career at Real Madrid.
      He said: “I believe that the year 2023 is appropriate [to retire], I will be 33 years old.
      “I will decide whether I will renew for a season or two, that is still open for discussion, but I am completely sure that I will retire at Real Madrid.”
      PO POSITION
      Leeds United are close to completing a deal for Junior Firpo but the move is being held up, according to reports.
      A deal has been agreed with Barcelona for his transfer but Covid protocols have halted progress after he travelled to England.
      Firpo is currently in quarantine ahead of undergoing a medical at Thorp Arch.
      According to Mundo Deportivo, Leeds have not specified when the medical will take place.
      And since that is the next stage in the transfer proceeding, there has been a delay in wrapping up a deal for the defender.
      The Whites have reportedly had a bid worth £13million accepted for the 24-year-old, who will sign a four-year deal.
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