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      Euro 2020 LIVE: Southgate contract LATEST, England set for EXTRA TICKETS as Germany fans barred – latest updates

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      EURO 2020 is rolling on at pace as we reach the last 16 knockout stage!And England will have a home advantage like never before, with no fans from Germany able to travel to Wembley.
      Meanwhile Georginio Wijnaldum has threatened to walk off the pitch in Budapest if his Netherlands team-mates are racially abused.
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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      MAAD SKILLS
      James Maddison has shown England boss Gareth Southgate what he’s missing with a sensational free-kick during summer training.
      The 24-year-old failed to make the provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2020 this summer as he was left out of the Three Lions set-up.

      JAD ENOUGH
      Jadon Sancho has told his England team-mates that he’s ‘heading to Old Trafford’, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that the winger has agreed a five-year, £350,000-a-week deal to join Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund.
      The two clubs have still been haggling over the fee, with add-ons the biggest point of contention.
      But the £80million deal is edging closer.
      According to Tom McDermott, Sancho has confirmed to his Three Lions pals that he’s definitely off to United.
      He adds that the deal is ‘practically done’.
      And that issues over add-ons have been ‘ironed out’.

      KNEW THIS DAEI WOULD COME
      Ali Daei has sent Cristiano Ronaldo a classy message after seeing his all-time international goalscoring record levelled.
      The Portugal superstar, 36, scored two penalties in his nation’s 2-2 draw with France in the final Group F game at Euro 2020.
      The double saw Ronaldo draw level with Iran legend Daei on 109 international goals.
      Daei wrote: “Congratulations to Cristiano who is now one goal away from breaking the men’s international goal scoring record.”
      Ronaldo replied with a gushing post of his own, which read: “True champions remain champions forever.”

      TROY DEENEY
      If England versus Germany goes down to a penalty shootout, do not expect Gareth Southgate’s men to be cool, calm and collected.
      They will have been practising and analysing and leaving nothing to chance to prepare for such a huge moment.
      But even if you are a regular penalty-taker, as I am, you simply cannot replicate the extreme pressure of a situation like that — the crowd noise, the expectation and the fear of missing a crucial penalty at Wembley.
      When Watford reached the FA Cup semi-final two years ago, we were 2-1 down to Wolves in the 94th minute when I was fouled and the referee pointed to the spot.
      Now I’ve taken dozens of penalties and I haven’t missed too many but that was something else.
      People talk about trying to block out the noise but in my experience that’s pretty much impossible.

      ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET
      Jamie Redknapp wants England to take the game to Germany when the two sides meet at Wembley on Tuesday.
      He told Sky Sports: “Don’t go safe. Let’s go out swinging punches. If Mason Mount and Jack Grealish are played together, I’d be nervous if I was in the Germany side.”
      LINK UP PLAY
      Declan Rice can’t wait to face Toni Kroos on Tuesday night after their Twitter love-in earlier this year.
      The West Ham midfielder revealed his admiration for Germany’s stalwart on social media back in April.
      And Rice said on Friday: “I can’t remember what my tweet was actually but I woke up to him saying ‘thanks mate’.
      “It was a good moment to be fair and the lads at West Ham were giving me a bit for it.
      “When there are the big games on and you are watching, you appreciate top footballers. Obviously that night I felt the need to say (what I did) about Muller and Toni Kroos.
      “I am relishing to go out there and put myself up against the best. It is England v Germany, round of 16, at Wembley, it is going to be proper, so I need to go out there and give a solid performance myself and as a team.
      “Kroos is world class, other midfielders like me we want to test ourselves. But we need to impose game and be physical on him and stop him spraying it around the pitch.”

      CHRIS BOOST
      Christian Eriksen made an emotional return to Denmark training ahead of their last-16 clash with Wales following his release from hospital.
      Kasper Schmeichel revealed the visit of the former Tottenham helped ‘erase the image of him on the pitch’ following the shocking scenes of June 12.
      The Leicester goalkeeper told CNN: “It was great to see him.
      “That helped a lot of the guys I think just to see him.
      “It helped erase the last image we had of him on the pitch.
      “To see him in real life and to see that he was OK… it was really important.”
      BA-LACKING COURAGE
      Michael Ballack has delivered a withering assessment of Germany’s chances against England – insisting too many of their players lack the heart for a battle.
      He said: “We always find it difficult when we play against countries who are mentally strong and good in one-on-one duels.
      “We have some lads who possess these characteristics – but not enough of them.
      “Unfortunately we have too many players who have not learned how to be flexible during matches.
      “They are pushed to their limits in difficult situations, when they need to win using other means than those originally planned.”

      LESS IS MORE
      Germany have begun their preparations for the Euro 2020 clash with England – by giving the players an extra day off.
      Joachim Low’s side face the Three Lions on Tuesday with a place in the quarter-finals up for grabs in a match which has caught the imagination of England.
      But while Gareth Southgate’s squad are now working hard at St George’s Park on a game plan to beat the Germans, it is far more relaxed within Low’s camp.
      For the manager has decided to give his players a second day off to rest following the 2-2 draw against Hungary on Tuesday night which secured second spot in Group F.
      It has been decided the players will benefit more from an extra 24 hours of relaxation than being put through their paces on the training ground.
      Instead, Germany will only train properly on Saturday and Sunday before going through a light session ahead of making the flight to the UK on Monday.
      OFF TRACK
      Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell have been denied the chance to train normally ahead of England’s clash with Germany – because they were not called by the Track and Trace service.
      The Chelsea pair are both serving ten days of isolation which only ends at midnight on Monday, meaning they cannot train with the Three Lions in the build up to Tuesday’s game.
      But SunSport has learnt they may have been able to form part of Gareth Southgate’s plans had they been contacted by the NHS Track and Trace team and told to isolate instead of volunteering the information themselves.

      COMPUTER SAYS NO
      England will finally beat Germany when they meet in their epic Euro 2020 last 16 showdown, according to a supercomputer.
      But the Three Lions are set to suffer heartbreak in the final as the long wait for a major tournament win rages on.

      CROSSED A LINE
      Alvaro Morata has revealed his children have received sick death threats over his Euro 2020 campaign.
      Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena: “I understand I get criticism for not scoring goals. I’m the first to know and accept it.
      “I wish people would put themselves in the position of seeing what it is to receiving threats and insults to your family, ‘I hope your children die,’ [this week] I had to put my phone away.
      “[Memes] don’t bother me, but what annoys me is what my wife has to go through.
      “My kids go to Seville with their dad’s name on their shirts. Yes [they’ve had things said to them].
      “I understand criticism for not doing my job well. But there’s a limit. I didn’t sleep for nine hours after the [Poland] game.
      “I was angry because I had a chance and Spain couldn’t win.
      “I wish people would put themselves in other people’s position. People whistle me because it’s what they hear. Others incite it.”

      PREM PROMISE
      The Premier League have agreed to fund over 2,000 new defibrillators across grassroots football in the wake of Christian Eriksen’s brush with death.
      The first phase will see the AEDs rolled out to Football Foundation funded facilities which currently do not have access to the life-saving device.
      Then grassroots clubs across England who own their own facilities will then be able to apply for funding for a defibrillator.
      Over 2,000 sites will benefit from this investment, with the first 1,000 units delivered in time for the start of season 2021-22 and the second wave expected in September.
      Once installed, the AEDs will be accessible, if required, to an estimated 1.5m people that use these facilities per season.
      As part of the scheme, each recipient will have required to send at least one person on the FA’s free Sudden Cardiac Arrest course to learn how to use them and also help with tips on CPR.
      KAY AND DRY
      England’s newest superstar Bukayo Saka was brought back to earth in savage style by team-mate Marcus Rashford.
      The Arsenal teen – who was man of the match in Tuesday’s win over Czech Republic – was cheekily nutmegged by Rashford in training on Friday.

      RIVALS UNITE
      England take on old rivals Germany in the last-16 of Euro 2020 on Tuesday night – but which stars would make a combined XI?
      Here’s SunSport’s pick of the bunch… thoughts?

      KNEW THIS DAEI WOULD COME
      Ali Daei has sent Cristiano Ronaldo a classy message after seeing his all-time international goalscoring record levelled.
      The Portugal superstar, 36, scored two penalties in his nation’s 2-2 draw with France in the final Group F game at Euro 2020.
      The double saw Ronaldo draw level with Iran legend Daei on 109 international goals.
      Daei wrote: “Congratulations to Cristiano who is now one goal away from breaking the men’s international goal scoring record.”
      Ronaldo replied with a gushing post of his own, which read: “True champions remain champions forever.”

      LIFE STARTS AT FORTY
      Cristiano Ronaldo has shown he can play until he is 40 with his Euro 2020 heroics.
      That is the view of former Portugal star Nuno Gomes, after the Juventus ace hit five goals in the group stage.
      Gomes told Ladbrokes: “He could maybe even play as late as 40, because of how well he takes care of himself. 
      “I think he now has the understanding that he’s not the same Cristiano as he was in his 20s, so he’s started to play in a different role for club and country. 
      “He’s more of a centre-forward now, which means he doesn’t have to use as much energy. 
      “He’s always there in the right moments, he makes important decisions, he’s brave and he assumes responsibility in big moments. It seems easy, but it’s never easy to score penalties the way he does in those kind of pressure situations.”
      SET YOUR WATCHES
      The Euro 2020 knockout round starts TOMORROW!
      First up at 5pm from Amsterdam is Wales versus Denmark, a real juicy clash between two teams determined to make history.
      And 8pm sees Italy face Austria in Wembley.
      After a flawless group stage, the Azzurri will be huge favourites to make the next round.
      Both games will be shown live on BBC One.
      Credit: AP
      TONIGHT’S ACTION
      No Euro 2020 matches tonight but the 2021-22 season is already pulling into view…
      FC Prishtina of Kosovo meet Andorra’s Inter Club d’Escaldes in the final round of the Champions League qualification  preliminary round.
      That kicks off at 7pm and there is also a big night in the Irish Premier Division.
      League leaders St Patrick’s head to struggling Waterford (7.45pm) while Shamrock Rovers, currently second on goals scored, face Drogheda (8pm).
      FAN-TASTIC
      England fans could be given an extra 7,400 tickets for Tuesday’s showdown with Germany due to travel restrictions.
      German supporters are unable to travel to the UK and complete a quarantine period in time for the second-round clash at Wembley.
      And that means their allocation of 7,400 tickets could be there to be claimed for Three Lions fans, the Telegraph reports.
      The game was originally meant to be played in Dublin, but Uefa moved it to London with the Irish capital unable to guarantee crowds.
      Wembley can hold 45,000 fans for Tuesday’s Euros clash, and some tickets were released online on Wednesday and Thursday.
      England supporters will receive an official allocation of 7,400 on Friday.
      Credit: Getty
      BETS ARE ON
      Italy take on Austria in Saturday’s Euro 2020 last-16 showdown at Wembley.
      And bookmakers Paddy Power are offering brand new customers a completely risk free £20 bet on the action PLUS a massive 48/1 bet builder special.
      So we’re backing Italy to reach the quarter finals with a 2-0 victory at odds of 5/1.
      Check out our top tips here.
      PEDAL TO THE METAL
      Cesc Fabregas has called on England to attack Germany in their upcoming last-16 clash.
      Likening Gareth Southgate’s approach to Portugal’s success five years ago, the midfielder believes that few teams excel in this mode.
      He wrote for the Telegraph: “Portugal proved that it is possible to win a major tournament with the handbrake on at the last Euros. 
      “You never know and if you are lucky in seven games, you can do it. But, generally, I believe you are more likely to eventually get knocked out this way.
      “I would like to see England take more risks and play with more freedom, and the return of Harry Maguire can help that because he can break lines by carrying the ball forwards or finding a pass. 
      “Up until now, they have seemed a little bit scared and like they have some tension in their heads.”
      GROUP STAGE RECAP
      The goal of the group stage, surely. The best ever goal at the Euros.
      Let’s take a look back and rejoice in this stunning hit from Patrik Schick.

      JACK IN THE BOX
      Manchester City are ready to CONFIRM the £100million transfer of Jack Grealish, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed last night the hopes within the Aston Villa star’s camp that he will seal a switch to Pep Guardiola’s team.
      And now the Mail expect the deal to be announced after Euro 2020.
      Talks between the clubs have reportedly advanced rapidly in recent days – and City are said to still want Harry Kane as well.
      Credit: PA
      FRIDAY FUN DAY
      Germany have begun their preparations for the Euro 2020 clash with England – by giving the players an extra day off.
      While Gareth Southgate’s squad are now working hard at St George’s Park on a gameplan to beat the Germans, it is far more relaxed within Joachim Low’s camp.
      The manager has decided to give his players a second day off to rest following the 2-2 draw against Hungary on Tuesday night which secured second spot in Group F.
      It has been decided the players will benefit more from an extra 24 hours of relaxation than being put through their paces on the training ground.
      Instead, Germany will only train properly on Saturday and Sunday before going through a light session ahead of the flight to the UK on Monday.
      Load more entries… More

    • 225 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Sancho ‘tells England team-mates he’s joining Man Utd’, Varane £50m bid rejected, Rashford could miss start of season

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED will reportedly complete the transfer of Jadon Sancho once they pay Dortmund an extra £8.5m in add-ons.Personal terms based on a five-year deal worth £350,000-a-week have already been agreed.
      And Sancho has told his future Man Utd team-mates in the England camp he’s joining up soon.
      Meanwhile the Red Devils are said to have had a £50m bid rejected for Raphael Varane.
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      Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
      JAD ENOUGH
      Jadon Sancho has told his England team-mates that he’s ‘heading to Old Trafford’, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that the winger has agreed a five-year, £350,000-a-week deal to join Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund.
      The two clubs have still been haggling over the fee, with add-ons the biggest point of contention.
      But the £80million deal is edging closer.
      According to Tom McDermott, Sancho has confirmed to his Three Lions pals that he’s definitely off to United.
      He adds that the deal is ‘practically done’.
      And that issues over add-ons have been ‘ironed out’.

      WEST DRESSED
      Weston McKennie revealed that Juventus team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo was only wearing PANTS the first time they met.
      In a US press conference promoting the MLS play-offs, he said: “The first time I saw Ronaldo I was walking into the physiotherapist’s room to go to my doctor and I saw him come out in his underwear.
      “I thought, ‘Oh my God! It’s really him!’. I did everything I could to behave normally and not pass for a total fan, because he would be my team-mate.”
      DOR OPENED
      Borussia Dortmund are reportedly interested in signing PSV Eindhoven forward Donyell Malen.
      And the German club could use some of the money from Jadon Sancho’s imminent sale to Manchester United to fund the move.
      Personal terms between Sancho and United have been agreed, with the Red Devils now needing to stump up an additional £8.5million to complete the deal.
      Dortmund are plotting a £25m move for Malen, according to German outlet Bild.
      And talks between Dortmund and Malen’s agen Mino Raiola have already begun.
      The fee for the Netherlands international could rise but the Bundesliga club view the 22-year-old as Sancho’s replacement.

      HIT THE ROAD JACK
      Manchester United target Jack Grealish has given a clear hint his future lies away from Aston Villa after revealing he’s desperate to win the Champions League.
      The 25-year-old said: “My ultimate goal? It’s got to be a trophy hasn’t it. I want to win either the Champions League or a major trophy with England, the Euros or the World Cup.
      “Obviously, the World Cup would be iconic wouldn’t it? But I think the Euros is just as good. And then at club level, to win a Champions League.
      “My best mate here, Chilly, has come off the back of winning. But yeah, I’ve got to say one of them – winning the Champions League or winning the World Cup or the Euros. So fingers crossed.”
      LINK UP PLAY
      Manchester United target Declan Rice can’t wait to face Toni Kroos on Tuesday night after their Twitter love-in earlier this year.
      The West Ham midfielder revealed his admiration for Germany’s stalwart on social media back in April.
      And Rice said on Friday: “I can’t remember what my tweet was actually but I woke up to him saying ‘thanks mate’.
      “It was a good moment to be fair and the lads at West Ham were giving me a bit for it.
      “When there are the big games on and you are watching, you appreciate top footballers. Obviously that night I felt the need to say (what I did) about Muller and Toni Kroos.
      “I am relishing to go out there and put myself up against the best. It is England v Germany, round of 16, at Wembley, it is going to be proper, so I need to go out there and give a solid performance myself and as a team.
      “Kroos is world class, other midfielders like me we want to test ourselves. But we need to impose game and be physical on him and stop him spraying it around the pitch.”

      JA-DONE DEAL
      Manchester United are reportedly getting closer to agreeing a deal to sign Jadon Sancho.
      Sky Sports claim the Red Devils are set to finalise a proposed £77million deal for the England winger.
      The report adds that the Bundesliga side have pushed for more of the fee to be paid up front.
      And Dortmund are now willing to lower their original £85m asking price from the start of the window if United agree to front-load the payment.
      BA-LACKING COURAGE
      Michael Ballack has delivered a withering assessment of Germany’s chances against England – insisting too many of their players lack the heart for a battle.
      He said: “We always find it difficult when we play against countries who are mentally strong and good in one-on-one duels.
      “We have some lads who possess these characteristics – but not enough of them.
      “Unfortunately we have too many players who have not learned how to be flexible during matches.
      “They are pushed to their limits in difficult situations, when they need to win using other means than those originally planned.”
      RAF RIDE
      Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane wants to complete a move to Manchester United this summer, according to reports.
      The 28-year-old French international joined the Spanish giants from Lens way back in 2011 for the price of £8.5million.
      But according to The Independent, Varane now wants away from the Spanish capital as Real prepare to go through a period of transition.
      However, the major hurdle facing Man Utd is the centre-back’s huge wage demands.
      He is reportedly holding out for an astronomical figure of £400,000 per week.
      That would make him the highest paid player at Old Trafford, eclipsing keeper David de Gea.
      WET HIS BEEK
      Manchester United could offload Anthony Martial and Donny van de Beek this summer, according to reports.
      Van de Beek has failed to establish himself in the first team and made just four league starts following his £39million move from Ajax last summer.
      But according to ESPN the Netherlands midfielder is keen to fight for his place at Old Trafford.
      Martial is another who could leave this summer, with the report claiming United will consider realistic offers for the pair.
      The club has responded to inquiries for the players stating “every player has a realistic evaluation”.

      RONALD-H2-O
      Daouda Peeters has confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo’s strict diet, claiming he quaffs ‘litres of water.. and no Coca-Cola’.
      Juventus youngster Peeters told HLN: “Cristiano always eats the same thing: broccoli, chicken and rice.
      “With litres of water, and no Coke, of course…
      “He does not do those abdominal exercises out of vanity, but because he sees his body as an instrument for work.
      “It is not the case that Cristiano stands in front of the mirror during those hours – he would not have time for that.
      “When he is at the club, it’s mainly for training. He really lives for his job.”
      SMALL CHANGE
      Everton are reportedly keen on bringing former Manchester United star Chris Smalling to Goodison Park this summer.
      Although the 31-year-old isn’t up for sale, Roma are said to be open to hearing the Toffees’ offer, according to Corrieredellosport.
      But any deal would only go ahead if the price is right and if Roma manage to find a replacement for the defender.
      The Italian side signed Smalling for £18million from Manchester United last summer and will want to recoup the bulk of that.
      Dellosport also claim another factor in the potential deal is if new Roma boss Jose Mourinho wants to off-load his defensive rock.
      The pair have a good relationship which goes back to when they worked together at United when Mourinho was in charge.

      PREM PROMISE
      The Premier League have agreed to fund over 2,000 new defibrillators across grassroots football in the wake of Christian Eriksen’s brush with death.
      The first phase will see the AEDs rolled out to Football Foundation funded facilities which currently do not have access to the life-saving device.
      Then grassroots clubs across England who own their own facilities will then be able to apply for funding for a defibrillator.
      Over 2,000 sites will benefit from this investment, with the first 1,000 units delivered in time for the start of season 2021-22 and the second wave expected in September.
      Once installed, the AEDs will be accessible, if required, to an estimated 1.5m people that use these facilities per season.
      As part of the scheme, each recipient will have required to send at least one person on the FA’s free Sudden Cardiac Arrest course to learn how to use them and also help with tips on CPR.
      KAY AND DRY
      England’s newest superstar Bukayo Saka was brought back to earth in savage style by team-mate Marcus Rashford.
      The Arsenal teen – who was man of the match in Tuesday’s win over Czech Republic – was cheekily nutmegged by Rashford in training on Friday.

      DONE DEAL
      Manchester United title winner Alexander Buttner is trying to revive his stalled career – with Dutch minnows RKC Waalwijk.
      The defender, 32, helped the Red Devils lift their most recent Premier League crown eight years ago.
      Buttner has since played for Anderlecht, Vitesse Arnhem and New England Revolution, and joined Apollon Limassol in January.
      However his move to Cyprus swiftly turned sour. Local media claimed the left-back was released due to fitness concerns.
      Meanwhile the player’s advisors insisted Apollon had failed to fulfil contractual promises.
      🌡 #RKC Waalwijk verwelkomt vanaf vandaag Alexander Büttner op de training. De verdediger traint de komende periode mee om zijn conditie op peil te houden.🔗 https://t.co/GtKJEIzvFL— RKC Waalwijk (@RKCWAALWIJK) June 25, 2021

      YOU OLD SOFTIE
      Phil Neville has revealed he was left stunned after Roy Keane turned up to his wedding – saying the Irishman has a ‘soft spot’ for him.
      Speaking on The Greatest Game with Jamie Carragher, Neville said: “Do you know what? I think he had a soft spot for me.
      “He actually turned up to my wedding… and he would never turn up to anyone else’s wedding.
      “He turned up to mine and had a good time – and his kids went to school with my kids. Every time I see him now, I think, ‘He has a little bit of a soft spot for me’.
      “I think because he hated Gary [Neville] so much – he used to fight with Gary every day – he saw me as the nice one.”
      PERI-PERI SOURCE
      Ivan Perisic is being tracked by Premier League and Bundesliga clubs ahead of a possible departure from Inter Milan.
      With his contract up in a year’s time, La Gazzetta dello Sport note Inter’s openness to cashing in on a player earning upwards of £80,000-a-week.
      Manchester United have been linked with the winger for practically his entire career.
      Credit: AFP
      HE’S OUR GAL
      Sunderland are joining the race to sign Ethan Galbraith on loan.
      A number of League One and Championship clubs are chasing the Northern Ireland international, who has made just one appearance for Manchester United.
      Sunderland Echo name the Black Cats as just one club tracking the 20-year-old.
      PAUL YOUR FINGER OUT
      Mikael Silvestre has called on Paul Pogba to show greater consistency despite his great start to Euro 2020.
      The France midfielder has starred for Les Bleus so far but his countryman believes he still has more to do.
      Ex-Manchester United defender Silvestre told Ladbrokes: “The problem with Paul Pogba is the consistency – or lack of.
      “When he’s at the top of this game, his level is something else, but he finds it difficult to repeat that game after game.
      “I look at it this way; he’s a world-class player, he’s got world-class attributes for sure. The question is, can he repeat it every three days? I’m not sure he can.
      “He hasn’t done it for Man United, I’m not sure he can do it for France either.”
      Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      NEAR AND VAR
      Raphael Varane should be Manchester United’s top target for the summer.
      That is according to Spanish former Premier League star Luis Garcia, who expects Real Madrid to put up a fight for the defender.
      He told ESPN: “I think Man United should try to bring [Varane] in.
      “He is one of the most important players at the moment at Real Madrid.
      “They’re losing [Sergio] Ramos who is the leader at the back. [Madrid] need to buy another centre-half.
      “If they want to challenge in every single competition, Real Madrid need to keep Varane.”
      HAIR RAISING
      Manchester United fans can rest easy.
      Paul Pogba has confirmed his latest haircut is NOT a symbol of his desire to return to Juventus.
      The midfielder’s current black-and-white do drew questions after France’s draw with Portugal.
      He replied: “It’s not tied to my future… My hair is always changing.”
      Credit: Getty
      CANTONA SIGNS FOR UNITED
      Eric Cantona has confirmed: “Yes, my friends, I have signed for United again.”
      The former Manchester United hero has, in fact, signed up for a campaign to buy supporters’ shares, in a scheme backed by the Glazers.
      Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) are leading a Fan Share Scheme to provide greater representation on club decision making.
      After Cantona became one of the first to sign up, MUST chief executive Duncan Drasdo said: “No one loves the club more than we do so fans should be at the heart of ownership. 
      “This is our chance to take the first step towards that change.”
      GARD’S UP
      West Ham will continue their pursuit of Jesse Lingard but may have to wait until Jadon Sancho’s future is resolved, according to reports.
      The England international reignited his career with the Hammers during a hugely impressive loan stint last season.
      According to the Express, West Ham are happy to bide their time to see if the Red Devils will consider letting him leave.
      Sancho’s arrival is likely to push Lingard down the pecking order at United and tempt the club into cashing in.

      NOT INTER YOU
      Donny van de Beek is holding out on a move to a Premier League or LaLiga club this summer, according to reports.
      FCInterNews claim the Manchester United outcast does not see a move to a Serie A team as a priority.
      The Red Devils are reportedly open to offers on their £40million man.
      CROWN JULE
      Chelsea have moved ahead of Manchester United in the race to sign Sevilla ace Jules Kounde, according to reports.
      The highly-talented 22-year-old is being heavily linked with a move to the Premier League this summer.
      Arsenal are also interested but boss Mikel Arteta has set his sights on Brighton’s Ben White.
      Thomas Tuchel is eager to land a new central defender this summer with Thiago Silva turning 37 in September.
      Kounde remains top of his shortlist and ABC Sevilla write how the Blues have made their move.
      Sevilla won’t let their key asset leave on the cheap having slapped a £55million price-tag on his head.

      NUN OTHER
      Portugal legend Nuno Gomes has recalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s infamous wink after Wayne Rooney’s sending off in their 2006 World Cup clash.
      England were knocked out at the quarter-final stage on penalties following the striker’s 62nd-minute dismissal, and a wink which turned Ronaldo into a pariah around the country.
      But Gomes has told Ladbrokes: “Cristiano and Wayne Rooney were teammates at club level, but when you’re on the field, you’re always trying to get an advantage for your team.
      “I think Rooney would’ve done the same thing if the situation was the other way round.
      “The wink is not great for people to see, but it proves that Cristiano was just taking advantage of the situation and giving his team the best chance of winning.
      “I remember there was a lot of talk in the newspapers and on TV after the incident, and people were suggesting Cristiano wouldn’t be returning to Manchester, but that just was not true.”
      Credit: PA:Press Association
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    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Motorsport

      F1 Styrian Grand Prix LIVE RESULTS: Latest updates as Verstappen dominates practice – UK start time, stream, TV channel

      by

      THE F1 roadshow is in Austria this weekend for the Styrian Grand Prix.Champ Lewis Hamilton currently sits 12 points behind Max Verstappen in a thrilling title race.

      Practice: FP3 – 11am Saturday
      Qualifying: 2pm, Saturday
      Race time: 2pm, Sunday
      TV/ live stream: Sky Sports F1

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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      DAN THE MAN
      Daniel Ricciardo has reacted to today’s practice…

      MERC TO DISCUSS
      Lewis Hamilton has started negotiations with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff over a new deal for next season.
      The 36-year-old is out of contract at the end of the year after only agreeing a 10-month deal in February, worth around £40million.
      The Brit had maintained that he was keeping his options open but has now given a firm indication he wants to continue to fight for championships in 2022.
      When quizzed by SunSport as to whether he had started talks with the team, Hamilton said: “We have begun discussions, and, not a lot to say.
      “It’s just that we have had discussions and things are positive.”

      PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
      Helmut Marko claims Red Bull Racing can go even faster in qualifying for the Styrian Grand Prix than they did in practice.
      When asked asked if Mercedes fully opened up its engine in qualifying, he told Motorsport-Magazin.com: “We haven’t turned it up yet either.
      He added: “The long runs also looked good.”
      DANGEROUS DRIVING
      Valtteri Bottas spun his Mercedes in the pit lane during practice for the Styrian Grand Prix this weekend.
      He has now been handed a three-place grid drop along with two penalty points on his licence.
      The stewards’ verdict said: “When [Bottas] pulled away from his designated pit stop position, he lost control of the car when he turned into the fast lane.
      “He oversteered, spun and came to a stop across the fast lane near the McLaren pits.
      “During the hearing [Bottas] stated that in the past they have been losing time in the pit departure. So they tried something new, which was to leave in second gear.
      “As a result, the wheel spin was much higher and the result unexpected. Therefore he didn’t manage to control the car properly into the fast lane.
      “This has to be considered as potentially dangerous driving, especially as personnel were around in the pit lane.”
      SPIN OUT
      Valtteri Bottas spun his Mercedes in the pit lane during practice for the Styrian Grand Prix this weekend.
      Here’s a closer look…

      BOTTING HEADS
      Valtteri Bottas spun his Mercedes in the pit lane during practice for the Styrian Grand Prix this weekend.
      He said: “Yes, I spun.
      “We tried something different getting out from the box and it was… yes – there were some variables to what we normally do with the wheelspin and that’s why I spun.
      “I would be surprised if there is [a penalty]. It’s a normal mistake, it happens, but yes, I’m sure they’ll understand what happened.”
      MORE FROM BEN HUNT
      1996 champion Damon Hill says the cracks are beginning to show in Mercedes as they come under pressure from Red Bull.
      He told the F1 podcast: “The thing that will become very interesting as we go through this year, is what is going to happen to this harmonious Mercedes team as we get further down the line?
      “We know that Christian… there’s no love lost with any of his competitors. He’s quite happy to rib them when it goes wrong.
      “I think the Mercedes looked a little bit off balance and a little bit concerned in a way that I’ve never seen them as a team before.”
      LEW CAN’T BE SERIOUS
      Christian Horner has taken a pop at Lewis Hamilton after the F1 champion raised suspicion over whether Max Verstappen’s Red Bull was legal.
      Hamilton repeatedly made reference to Red Bull’s new Honda engine and their superior “straight-line speed” following Verstappen’s win in France.
      F1 rules mean that teams must run the same engine specification all season and cannot perform upgrades.
      That was confirmed by Merc boss Toto Wolff ahead of the Austrian GP, who also admitted their rivals’ speed was due to better aerodynamics, prompting a reaction from Horner.
      The Red Bull boss said: “I think Toto has answered it very well and I think that maybe he should explain it to his driver.
      “I listen with interest sometimes to the theories that Lewis has, which are some way from reality.
      “We run less drag, less rear wing, and as a result go quicker down the straights sometimes.”
      Mercedes and Red Bull have been at loggerheads this season over the legality of wings and tyre pressures as they both look to exploit holes in the rulebook.
      And the row continues to rumble on, as Red Bull have lobbied the sport’s governing body, the FIA, to look into Merc’s front wing.
      Verstappen told SunSport: “I do think that when you are checking the rear wing, you should also be checking the front wing.
      “The front wing has a bigger effect on the car. It’s up to the FIA now to do these checks, because clearly they have done checks on the rear wings.”
      TOP TEN FP2
      1. VER – 1:05.4122. RIC – Good performance after slow start in McLaren3. OCO4. HAM – Just over three tenths back5. ALO – Second-highest lap count (39)6. VET – Briefly led an Aston Martin one-two as conditions improved7. NOR8. STR9. PER10. GIO
      Credit: AP
      CHEQUERED FLAG
      Well this looked like a session disrupted by downpours as it got underway.
      Instead, we saw more pieces of gravel thrown into the air than drops of rain – plus a pit-lane spin from one Valtteri Bottas.
      Max Verstappen leads the timesheet having also claimed FP1.
      FIVE TO GO
      Will anyone come in for a fresh crack at a hot lap?
      The conditions have been surprisingly good for the teams to get in some long runs, amid the threat of rain.
      STEINER NONPLUSSED
      Haas team boss Guenther Steiner tells Sky Sports that Valtteri Bottas’ spin is just ‘one of those things’.
      He knows that every driver wants to put rubber down on their pit box to help the grip on their future launches, although spinning off while doing so is not recommended.
      MAC ATTACK
      McLaren’s pit crew were out as Valtteri Bottas flew past them, sideways.
      It was very fortunate that his Mercedes did not collect anybody and race director Michael Masi is told over radio: “That’s absolutely ridiculous, he could have taken our guys out.”
      FIFTEEN-POINT TURN
      That was Valtteri Bottas getting on the gas as he left the pit lane to get some quick heat into his tyres.
      But the wheelspin as he hit the painted tarmac spun his car, which mercifully avoided the walls on both sides.
      After a bit of jimmying from his mechanics, the Finn is underway.

      OOPSIE
      Valtteri Bottas has just spun in the pit lane.
      Not a good idea.
      GIVES YOU WINGS
      Max Verstappen certainly enjoying the Red Bull’s speed this session and is top with a 1:05.412, with Sergio Perez back in ninth.
      But the race simulations mean lap counters are also pretty key with the entire pack clocking up 20 times around the Red Bull Ring so far, aside from Nicholas Latifi (17) and Pierre Gasly (zero).
      POWER UP
      Christian Horner has taken a pop at Lewis Hamilton after the F1 champion raised suspicion over whether Max Verstappen’s Red Bull was legal.
      Hamilton repeatedly made reference to Red Bull’s new Honda engine and their superior “straight-line speed” following Verstappen’s win in France.
      F1 rules mean that teams must run the same engine specification all season and cannot perform upgrades.
      That was confirmed by Merc boss Toto Wolff ahead of the Austrian GP, who also admitted their rivals’ speed was due to better aerodynamics, prompting a reaction from Horner.
      The Red Bull boss said: “I think Toto has answered it very well and I think that maybe he should explain it to his driver.
      “I listen with interest sometimes to the theories that Lewis has, which are some way from reality.
      “We run less drag, less rear wing, and as a result go quicker down the straights sometimes.”
      Credit: AFP
      RACE RUNS
      The fuel is loaded up and tyres pushed to the limit with the pack undertaking race simulations.
      They will be very happy to see conditions remain dry for the time being.
      TOP TEN AT HALFWAY
      1. VER2. RIC3. OCO4. HAM5. ALO6. VET7. NOR8. STR9. PER10. SAI
      PAIN IN THE GAS
      Nothing from Pierre Gasly this session and his chances of a runout look slim.
      A power unit issue is denying us the Frenchman for the time being.
      Perhaps Nikita Mazepin was wishing he was back in the pits as he skidded across the gravel after Turn 4, knocking off Carlos Sainz’s naming rights for the bumpy patch.
      Credit: Splash
      LEW KNOW IT
      And there it goes.
      Lewis Hamilton bumps downs Sebastian Vettel and takes first with a 1:05.796.
      Times are tumbling but the clouds are gathering, so this short period could decide the session with Esteban Ocon now jumping Hamilton.
      ASTON’S MERRY WITH GOLD
      It’s a one-two for Aston Martin!
      The rain has momentarily subsided, the Soft tyres are on and Sebastian Vettel is leading FP2, just ahead of Lance Stroll.
      BOTTAS ON THE SOFTS
      No Hard tyre nonsense for Valtteri Bottas.
      Going straight on the Softs, the Mercedes star looks to be setting a qualifying type hot lap and yet is still slower than Max Verstappen.
      The Dutchman remains top despite being on a slower tyre…
      Meanwhile Lewis Hamilton is in the pits after tickling Carlos Sainz’s gravel at Turn 4.
      Credit: Getty
      SAINZ OFF
      Carlos Sainz skirts across the gravel after going around Turn 4.
      The Spaniard luckily doesn’t collect anyone as he reverses back onto the track with a handful of stones brought back to the pits for his troubles.
      MOST DRIVERS OUT NOW
      Just Valtteri Bottas and Pierre Gasly yet to hit the track.
      Red Bull boss Christian Horner is hanging back from his seat on the pit wall to get a feel for the weather, but Sergio Perez radios in to say the rain is not yet heavy enough to worry about.
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd ‘to COMPLETE Jadon Sancho transfer’, Varane £50m bid rejected, Rashford could miss start of season

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED will reportedly complete the transfer of Jadon Sancho once they pay Dortmund an extra £8.5m in add-ons.Personal terms based on a five-year deal worth £350,000-a-week have already been agreed.
      Meanwhile the Red Devils are said to have had a £50m bid rejected for Raphael Varane.
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      Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
      SMALL CHANGE
      Everton are reportedly keen on bringing former Manchester United star Chris Smalling to Goodison Park this summer.
      Although the 31-year-old isn’t up for sale, Roma are said to be open to hearing the Toffees’ offer, according to Corrieredellosport.
      But any deal would only go ahead if the price is right and if Roma manage to find a replacement for the defender.
      The Italian side signed Smalling for £18million from Manchester United last summer and will want to recoup the bulk of that.
      Dellosport also claim another factor in the potential deal is if new Roma boss Jose Mourinho wants to off-load his defensive rock.
      The pair have a good relationship which goes back to when they worked together at United when Mourinho was in charge.

      PREM PROMISE
      The Premier League have agreed to fund over 2,000 new defibrillators across grassroots football in the wake of Christian Eriksen’s brush with death.
      The first phase will see the AEDs rolled out to Football Foundation funded facilities which currently do not have access to the life-saving device.
      Then grassroots clubs across England who own their own facilities will then be able to apply for funding for a defibrillator.
      Over 2,000 sites will benefit from this investment, with the first 1,000 units delivered in time for the start of season 2021-22 and the second wave expected in September.
      Once installed, the AEDs will be accessible, if required, to an estimated 1.5m people that use these facilities per season.
      As part of the scheme, each recipient will have required to send at least one person on the FA’s free Sudden Cardiac Arrest course to learn how to use them and also help with tips on CPR.
      KAY AND DRY
      England’s newest superstar Bukayo Saka was brought back to earth in savage style by team-mate Marcus Rashford.
      The Arsenal teen – who was man of the match in Tuesday’s win over Czech Republic – was cheekily nutmegged by Rashford in training on Friday.

      DONE DEAL
      Manchester United title winner Alexander Buttner is trying to revive his stalled career – with Dutch minnows RKC Waalwijk.
      The defender, 32, helped the Red Devils lift their most recent Premier League crown eight years ago.
      Buttner has since played for Anderlecht, Vitesse Arnhem and New England Revolution, and joined Apollon Limassol in January.
      However his move to Cyprus swiftly turned sour. Local media claimed the left-back was released due to fitness concerns.
      Meanwhile the player’s advisors insisted Apollon had failed to fulfil contractual promises.
      🌡 #RKC Waalwijk verwelkomt vanaf vandaag Alexander Büttner op de training. De verdediger traint de komende periode mee om zijn conditie op peil te houden.🔗 https://t.co/GtKJEIzvFL— RKC Waalwijk (@RKCWAALWIJK) June 25, 2021

      YOU OLD SOFTIE
      Phil Neville has revealed he was left stunned after Roy Keane turned up to his wedding – saying the Irishman has a ‘soft spot’ for him.
      Speaking on The Greatest Game with Jamie Carragher, Neville said: “Do you know what? I think he had a soft spot for me.
      “He actually turned up to my wedding… and he would never turn up to anyone else’s wedding.
      “He turned up to mine and had a good time – and his kids went to school with my kids. Every time I see him now, I think, ‘He has a little bit of a soft spot for me’.
      “I think because he hated Gary [Neville] so much – he used to fight with Gary every day – he saw me as the nice one.”
      PERI-PERI SOURCE
      Ivan Perisic is being tracked by Premier League and Bundesliga clubs ahead of a possible departure from Inter Milan.
      With his contract up in a year’s time, La Gazzetta dello Sport note Inter’s openness to cashing in on a player earning upwards of £80,000-a-week.
      Manchester United have been linked with the winger for practically his entire career.
      Credit: AFP
      HE’S OUR GAL
      Sunderland are joining the race to sign Ethan Galbraith on loan.
      A number of League One and Championship clubs are chasing the Northern Ireland international, who has made just one appearance for Manchester United.
      Sunderland Echo name the Black Cats as just one club tracking the 20-year-old.
      PAUL YOUR FINGER OUT
      Mikael Silvestre has called on Paul Pogba to show greater consistency despite his great start to Euro 2020.
      The France midfielder has starred for Les Bleus so far but his countryman believes he still has more to do.
      Ex-Manchester United defender Silvestre told Ladbrokes: “The problem with Paul Pogba is the consistency – or lack of.
      “When he’s at the top of this game, his level is something else, but he finds it difficult to repeat that game after game.
      “I look at it this way; he’s a world-class player, he’s got world-class attributes for sure. The question is, can he repeat it every three days? I’m not sure he can.
      “He hasn’t done it for Man United, I’m not sure he can do it for France either.”
      Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      NEAR AND VAR
      Raphael Varane should be Manchester United’s top target for the summer.
      That is according to Spanish former Premier League star Luis Garcia, who expects Real Madrid to put up a fight for the defender.
      He told ESPN: “I think Man United should try to bring [Varane] in.
      “He is one of the most important players at the moment at Real Madrid.
      “They’re losing [Sergio] Ramos who is the leader at the back. [Madrid] need to buy another centre-half.
      “If they want to challenge in every single competition, Real Madrid need to keep Varane.”
      HAIR RAISING
      Manchester United fans can rest easy.
      Paul Pogba has confirmed his latest haircut is NOT a symbol of his desire to return to Juventus.
      The midfielder’s current black-and-white do drew questions after France’s draw with Portugal.
      He replied: “It’s not tied to my future… My hair is always changing.”
      Credit: Getty
      CANTONA SIGNS FOR UNITED
      Eric Cantona has confirmed: “Yes, my friends, I have signed for United again.”
      The former Manchester United hero has, in fact, signed up for a campaign to buy supporters’ shares, in a scheme backed by the Glazers.
      Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) are leading a Fan Share Scheme to provide greater representation on club decision making.
      After Cantona became one of the first to sign up, MUST chief executive Duncan Drasdo said: “No one loves the club more than we do so fans should be at the heart of ownership. 
      “This is our chance to take the first step towards that change.”
      GARD’S UP
      West Ham will continue their pursuit of Jesse Lingard but may have to wait until Jadon Sancho’s future is resolved, according to reports.
      The England international reignited his career with the Hammers during a hugely impressive loan stint last season.
      According to the Express, West Ham are happy to bide their time to see if the Red Devils will consider letting him leave.
      Sancho’s arrival is likely to push Lingard down the pecking order at United and tempt the club into cashing in.

      NOT INTER YOU
      Donny van de Beek is holding out on a move to a Premier League or LaLiga club this summer, according to reports.
      FCInterNews claim the Manchester United outcast does not see a move to a Serie A team as a priority.
      The Red Devils are reportedly open to offers on their £40million man.
      CROWN JULE
      Chelsea have moved ahead of Manchester United in the race to sign Sevilla ace Jules Kounde, according to reports.
      The highly-talented 22-year-old is being heavily linked with a move to the Premier League this summer.
      Arsenal are also interested but boss Mikel Arteta has set his sights on Brighton’s Ben White.
      Thomas Tuchel is eager to land a new central defender this summer with Thiago Silva turning 37 in September.
      Kounde remains top of his shortlist and ABC Sevilla write how the Blues have made their move.
      Sevilla won’t let their key asset leave on the cheap having slapped a £55million price-tag on his head.

      NUN OTHER
      Portugal legend Nuno Gomes has recalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s infamous wink after Wayne Rooney’s sending off in their 2006 World Cup clash.
      England were knocked out at the quarter-final stage on penalties following the striker’s 62nd-minute dismissal, and a wink which turned Ronaldo into a pariah around the country.
      But Gomes has told Ladbrokes: “Cristiano and Wayne Rooney were teammates at club level, but when you’re on the field, you’re always trying to get an advantage for your team.
      “I think Rooney would’ve done the same thing if the situation was the other way round.
      “The wink is not great for people to see, but it proves that Cristiano was just taking advantage of the situation and giving his team the best chance of winning.
      “I remember there was a lot of talk in the newspapers and on TV after the incident, and people were suggesting Cristiano wouldn’t be returning to Manchester, but that just was not true.”
      Credit: PA:Press Association
      ‘FIRST OF IT’S KIND’
      Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante and Mohamed Salah are just three of the 200-plus Muslim stars in the Premier League and EFL.
      And a ‘first of it’s kind’ ten-point charter has been produced to guide clubs on best practice regarding their Islamic stars.
      Nujum Sports are behind the concept, which has already been picked up by several clubs in the top tiers.
      Founder and chief executive Ebadur Rahman highlighted Pogba’s recent removal of a bottle of Heineken at his Euro 2020 press conference as one situation to learn from.
      He told BBC: “After speaking extensively to athletes and clubs, we felt it was the right time to have a Muslim athlete charter in place in the UK. We believe it is the first and only one of its kind.
      “Clubs and organisations are joining a positive movement of solidarity, equality and recognition of the contribution Muslims make at their respective clubs and teams.”
      HERE WE SAN-GO
      Manchester United are nearing a deal for Jadon Sancho, according to reports.
      The Manchester Evening News claims Borussia Dortmund want just £6million more than the Red Devils’ current bid for the winger, plus £2.5m more in add-ons.
      Sancho is described as keen on the move with both club and player optimistic of sealing the move after personal terms were agreed.
      Credit: Getty
      GAZ ALL, FOLKS
      Phil Neville has revealed how brother Gary set the wheels in motion for his exit from Manchester United.
      In 2005, the defender signed for Everton after a short exchange with his brother , which he recalled on the Greatest Game Podcast.
      Phil said: “I was with Gary one day, and I said this is happening. And Gary being Gary, he literally picked up his phone and rang Sir Alex straight away, and within 10 minutes we were sat in his front room.
      “Literally Gary wasn’t my team-mate, he became my brother, the protective one around me. He just took me straight to Sir Alex’s house, and at that time we decided it was the best thing.
      “I had a cup of tea, a piece of cake, and we spoke about the next stage of my career, and literally came out of his house and I was no longer a United player. Ultimately, it was probably Gary that instigated the final bit.
      “My dad was away on holiday with my mum. And he literally picked up the phone and rang the boss, and said right we need to talk, Phil wants to talk, and within an hour, Gary had got me a move to Everton.”
      UR OUR GUAY
      Edinson Cavani netted in Uruguay’s Copa America win against Bolivia overnight.
      The 2-0 win their progression to the quarter-finals and knocked out Bolivia, with only one team leaving the competition from each of the two groups.
      After helping force the own-goal opener, Cavani slotted home a cool 78th-minute second after Uruguay missed several chances.

      GOOD MORNING UTD FANS,
      Marcus Rashford could face shoulder surgery after the Euros, making him a doubt for the start of Manchester United’s Premier League campaign.
      Rashford has played through pain to ensure his place in England’s squad for the Euros.
      And asked whether he needed an operation, Man Utd ace Rashford, 23, said: “I have to decide after – it’s either an operation or I don’t get an operation on my shoulder.
      “I’m not 100 per cent sure if I need it yet. I’ll finish strongly here and like I said I’ve got a few weeks off to just relax and decide what I’m going to do.
      “The doctors have not said how long I’d be out for.
      “The reason I don’t know is that when the season was going, and before I came here (with England), I knew there was no chance I was going to be getting the operation so I did not know how long the operation would put me out for.
      “I am fully concentrated on here (England). When the tournament is finished then I will ask the question.
      “But to get to this stage where I am now, it was a massive aim of mine back at the beginning of the season. I’m prepared mentally and physically for games.”
      And Rashford admits he has been unable to produce his best form in recent months.
      He said: “Obviously I am not performing at my best, and what I know I can perform to.
      “Whatever that is down to, it doesn’t really matter because it has been going on since early on in the season.
      “I managed to get through the season with United. I think I had 36 goal involvements so I can’t look back at the year and say ‘mmm, I should have taken time off to do this and do that.’
      “I just want to be available for every game.”
      Elsewhere on the transfer front, United have reportedly told Borussia Dortmund they are willing to pay £73m for Jadon Sancho plus add-ons.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made signing the England international his priority after failing to secure his services last summer.
      Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Manchester United officially told BVB they’re prepared to pay €85m for Sancho.
      “Add-ons included as part of the negotiation ‘to reach an agreement soon’. BVB still asking for €95m guaranteed.
      “Clubs in talks about add-ons structure. Jadon made it clear: he wants Man Utd.”
      MORE FROM RASHFORD
      And Rashford admits he has been unable to produce his best form in recent months.
      He said: “Obviously I am not performing at my best, and what I know I can perform to.
      “Whatever that is down to, it doesn’t really matter because it has been going on since early on in the season.
      “I managed to get through the season with United. I think I had 36 goal involvements so I can’t look back at the year and say ‘mmm, I should have taken time off to do this and do that.’
      “I just want to be available for every game.”
      RASH DECISION
      Marcus Rashford could face shoulder surgery after the Euros, making him a doubt for the start of Manchester United’s Premier League campaign.
      Rashford has played through pain to ensure his place in England’s squad for the Euros.
      And asked whether he needed an operation, Man Utd ace Rashford, 23, said: “I have to decide after – it’s either an operation or I don’t get an operation on my shoulder.
      “I’m not 100 per cent sure if I need it yet. I’ll finish strongly here and like I said I’ve got a few weeks off to just relax and decide what I’m going to do.
      “The doctors have not said how long I’d be out for.
      “The reason I don’t know is that when the season was going, and before I came here (with England), I knew there was no chance I was going to be getting the operation so I did not know how long the operation would put me out for.
      “I am fully concentrated on here (England). When the tournament is finished then I will ask the question.
      “But to get to this stage where I am now, it was a massive aim of mine back at the beginning of the season. I’m prepared mentally and physically for games.”

      UP FOR THE CUP
      Manchester United’s U21s have found out their fates for the Papa John’s Trophy next season.
      The Young Red Devils will be up against Bradford City, Lincoln City and defending champions Sunderland in Group F of the Northern Section.
      UNITED FRONT
      Jadon Sancho is set to become one of Man Utd’s most expensive signings should he finally complete his move from Borussia Dortmund this summer.

      PUT A FOOT RON
      Cristiano Ronaldo was subjected to ‘insults and beatings’ from Arsenal when the former Manchester United star tried tricks.
      That is the revelation by ex-Arsenal attacker Robert Pires on a harsh start to life in England for Ronaldo.
      Ronaldo’s introduction to English football was greeted with plenty of harsh challenges and Pires admitted opposing players did not appreciate the star’s showboating.
      Pires told Record: “Cristiano made feints and the English didn’t like it. It was just a beating.
      “You can’t play like that against the English and you couldn’t do that at Highbury, Arsenal’s home. It was just insults and beatings.
      “At first he didn’t stand it very well, it was complicated for him. Football in England is completely different.”
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      in Soccer

      Euro 2020 LIVE: England set for EXTRA TICKETS as Germany fans barred, Netherlands could walk off pitch in Budapest

      by

      EURO 2020 is rolling on at pace as we reach the last 16!And England will have a home advantage like never before, with no fans from Germany able to travel to Wembley.
      Meanwhile Georginio Wijnaldum has threatened to walk off the pitch in Budapest if his Netherlands team-mates are racially abused.
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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      CROSSED A LINE
      Alvaro Morata has revealed his children have received sick death threats over his Euro 2020 campaign.
      Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena: “I understand I get criticism for not scoring goals. I’m the first to know and accept it.
      “I wish people would put themselves in the position of seeing what it is to receiving threats and insults to your family, ‘I hope your children die,’ [this week] I had to put my phone away.
      “[Memes] don’t bother me, but what annoys me is what my wife has to go through.
      “My kids go to Seville with their dad’s name on their shirts. Yes [they’ve had things said to them].
      “I understand criticism for not doing my job well. But there’s a limit. I didn’t sleep for nine hours after the [Poland] game.
      “I was angry because I had a chance and Spain couldn’t win.
      “I wish people would put themselves in other people’s position. People whistle me because it’s what they hear. Others incite it.”

      PREM PROMISE
      The Premier League have agreed to fund over 2,000 new defibrillators across grassroots football in the wake of Christian Eriksen’s brush with death.
      The first phase will see the AEDs rolled out to Football Foundation funded facilities which currently do not have access to the life-saving device.
      Then grassroots clubs across England who own their own facilities will then be able to apply for funding for a defibrillator.
      Over 2,000 sites will benefit from this investment, with the first 1,000 units delivered in time for the start of season 2021-22 and the second wave expected in September.
      Once installed, the AEDs will be accessible, if required, to an estimated 1.5m people that use these facilities per season.
      As part of the scheme, each recipient will have required to send at least one person on the FA’s free Sudden Cardiac Arrest course to learn how to use them and also help with tips on CPR.
      KAY AND DRY
      England’s newest superstar Bukayo Saka was brought back to earth in savage style by team-mate Marcus Rashford.
      The Arsenal teen – who was man of the match in Tuesday’s win over Czech Republic – was cheekily nutmegged by Rashford in training on Friday.

      RIVALS UNITE
      England take on old rivals Germany in the last-16 of Euro 2020 on Tuesday night – but which stars would make a combined XI?
      Here’s SunSport’s pick of the bunch… thoughts?

      KNEW THIS DAEI WOULD COME
      Ali Daei has sent Cristiano Ronaldo a classy message after seeing his all-time international goalscoring record levelled.
      The Portugal superstar, 36, scored two penalties in his nation’s 2-2 draw with France in the final Group F game at Euro 2020.
      The double saw Ronaldo draw level with Iran legend Daei on 109 international goals.
      Daei wrote: “Congratulations to Cristiano who is now one goal away from breaking the men’s international goal scoring record.”
      Ronaldo replied with a gushing post of his own, which read: “True champions remain champions forever.”

      LIFE STARTS AT FORTY
      Cristiano Ronaldo has shown he can play until he is 40 with his Euro 2020 heroics.
      That is the view of former Portugal star Nuno Gomes, after the Juventus ace hit five goals in the group stage.
      Gomes told Ladbrokes: “He could maybe even play as late as 40, because of how well he takes care of himself. 
      “I think he now has the understanding that he’s not the same Cristiano as he was in his 20s, so he’s started to play in a different role for club and country. 
      “He’s more of a centre-forward now, which means he doesn’t have to use as much energy. 
      “He’s always there in the right moments, he makes important decisions, he’s brave and he assumes responsibility in big moments. It seems easy, but it’s never easy to score penalties the way he does in those kind of pressure situations.”
      SET YOUR WATCHES
      The Euro 2020 knockout round starts TOMORROW!
      First up at 5pm from Amsterdam is Wales versus Denmark, a real juicy clash between two teams determined to make history.
      And 8pm sees Italy face Austria in Wembley.
      After a flawless group stage, the Azzurri will be huge favourites to make the next round.
      Both games will be shown live on BBC One.
      Credit: AP
      TONIGHT’S ACTION
      No Euro 2020 matches tonight but the 2021-22 season is already pulling into view…
      FC Prishtina of Kosovo meet Andorra’s Inter Club d’Escaldes in the final round of the Champions League qualification  preliminary round.
      That kicks off at 7pm and there is also a big night in the Irish Premier Division.
      League leaders St Patrick’s head to struggling Waterford (7.45pm) while Shamrock Rovers, currently second on goals scored, face Drogheda (8pm).
      FAN-TASTIC
      England fans could be given an extra 7,400 tickets for Tuesday’s showdown with Germany due to travel restrictions.
      German supporters are unable to travel to the UK and complete a quarantine period in time for the second-round clash at Wembley.
      And that means their allocation of 7,400 tickets could be there to be claimed for Three Lions fans, the Telegraph reports.
      The game was originally meant to be played in Dublin, but Uefa moved it to London with the Irish capital unable to guarantee crowds.
      Wembley can hold 45,000 fans for Tuesday’s Euros clash, and some tickets were released online on Wednesday and Thursday.
      England supporters will receive an official allocation of 7,400 on Friday.
      Credit: Getty
      BETS ARE ON
      Italy take on Austria in Saturday’s Euro 2020 last-16 showdown at Wembley.
      And bookmakers Paddy Power are offering brand new customers a completely risk free £20 bet on the action PLUS a massive 48/1 bet builder special.
      So we’re backing Italy to reach the quarter finals with a 2-0 victory at odds of 5/1.
      Check out our top tips here.
      PEDAL TO THE METAL
      Cesc Fabregas has called on England to attack Germany in their upcoming last-16 clash.
      Likening Gareth Southgate’s approach to Portugal’s success five years ago, the midfielder believes that few teams excel in this mode.
      He wrote for the Telegraph: “Portugal proved that it is possible to win a major tournament with the handbrake on at the last Euros. 
      “You never know and if you are lucky in seven games, you can do it. But, generally, I believe you are more likely to eventually get knocked out this way.
      “I would like to see England take more risks and play with more freedom, and the return of Harry Maguire can help that because he can break lines by carrying the ball forwards or finding a pass. 
      “Up until now, they have seemed a little bit scared and like they have some tension in their heads.”
      GROUP STAGE RECAP
      The goal of the group stage, surely. The best ever goal at the Euros.
      Let’s take a look back and rejoice in this stunning hit from Patrik Schick.

      JACK IN THE BOX
      Manchester City are ready to CONFIRM the £100million transfer of Jack Grealish, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed last night the hopes within the Aston Villa star’s camp that he will seal a switch to Pep Guardiola’s team.
      And now the Mail expect the deal to be announced after Euro 2020.
      Talks between the clubs have reportedly advanced rapidly in recent days – and City are said to still want Harry Kane as well.
      Credit: PA
      FRIDAY FUN DAY
      Germany have begun their preparations for the Euro 2020 clash with England – by giving the players an extra day off.
      While Gareth Southgate’s squad are now working hard at St George’s Park on a gameplan to beat the Germans, it is far more relaxed within Joachim Low’s camp.
      The manager has decided to give his players a second day off to rest following the 2-2 draw against Hungary on Tuesday night which secured second spot in Group F.
      It has been decided the players will benefit more from an extra 24 hours of relaxation than being put through their paces on the training ground.
      Instead, Germany will only train properly on Saturday and Sunday before going through a light session ahead of the flight to the UK on Monday.
      NUN OTHER
      Portugal legend Nuno Gomes has recalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s infamous wink after Wayne Rooney’s sending off in their 2006 World Cup clash.
      England were knocked out at the quarter-final stage on penalties following the striker’s 62nd-minute dismissal, and a wink which turned Ronaldo into a pariah around the country.
      But Gomes has told Ladbrokes: “Cristiano and Wayne Rooney were teammates at club level, but when you’re on the field, you’re always trying to get an advantage for your team.
      “I think Rooney would’ve done the same thing if the situation was the other way round.
      “The wink is not great for people to see, but it proves that Cristiano was just taking advantage of the situation and giving his team the best chance of winning.
      “I remember there was a lot of talk in the newspapers and on TV after the incident, and people were suggesting Cristiano wouldn’t be returning to Manchester, but that just was not true.”
      Credit: PA:Press Association
      ‘FIRST OF IT’S KIND’
      Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante and Mohamed Salah are just two of Euro 2020’s many Muslim stars.
      And a ‘first of it’s kind’ ten-point charter has been produced to guide teams on best practice regarding their Islamic stars.
      Nujum Sports are behind the concept, which has already been picked up by The FA.
      Founder and chief executive Ebadur Rahman highlighted Pogba’s recent removal of a bottle of Heineken at his Euros press conference as one situation to learn from.
      He told BBC: “After speaking extensively to athletes and clubs, we felt it was the right time to have a Muslim athlete charter in place in the UK. We believe it is the first and only one of its kind.
      “Clubs and organisations are joining a positive movement of solidarity, equality and recognition of the contribution Muslims make at their respective clubs and teams.”
      HEAVENS TO BETSY
      England Under-18s boss Kevin Betsy has emerged as a target for Arsenal.
      Per Mertesacker is undertaking a review of the Gunners academy, which led to the sacking of club legend Steve Bould earlier in the summer.
      According to the Mail, Arsenal want Betsy to become their new Under-23s coach.
      But the Three Lions, having only recently lost U19s chief Justin Cochrane, will put up a fight to keep their highly-rated coach.
      BOY DON GOOD
      Liverpool have started transfer talks to sign Netherlands Euro 2020 star Donyell Malen, according to reports.
      The 22-year-old forward has been impressive during the Dutch campaign so far, assisting in his last two matches.
      Boss Jurgen Klopp wants to waste no time in luring him to Anfield and secure his signature early with a valuation of £34million.
      Malen was already attracting interest across Europe following his brilliant season for PSV Eindhoven.
      Klopp is determined to land a new forward this summer following last season’s disappointment.
      LEARN THE LESSONS OF HISTORY
      Gareth Southgate talked to England stars about his Euro 96 penalty agony against Germany – even before Tuesday’s blockbuster game was confirmed.
      Midfielder Kalvin Phillips has revealed that Southgate relived his fateful miss shortly after the current squad met up for the Euros, as part of a presentation about shootouts.
      Phillip said: “In one of the first meetings he showed us the penalty he missed. He has a laugh about it now. He tells us all about it.
      “We were just speaking about penalty shootouts in general, that to get to the final we’re gonna have to eventually go through a penalty shootout, as every other team has.
      “He was speaking of his experiences and of the experiences of when we were in the [2018] World Cup.
      “It’s a bit up and down: in his experience it didn’t go too well, but in the World Cup it went well. It was a mixture. Just getting to know what people want to do and how people take penalties and stuff like that.”
      Credit: Hulton Archive – Getty
      GOOD MORNING EUROS FANS,
      Gini Wijnaldum is ready to lead Holland off the pitch if they suffer racist abuse in Budapest.
      He said: “You could lose a game because of those kinds of slurs. In this case Uefa should be there to protect the players and they should make the decision.
      “Players often get punished for protecting themselves so Uefa needs to take a lead role in this.
      “They should be the ones to say ‘if this sort of thing happens we will cancel the game and stop playing’.
      “It is not acceptable and we don’t want it. When it happened in the beginning and I started thinking about it. I think different things.
      “I started to think ‘would I walk off the pitch?’ — which I might, actually.
      It could be the case that I will walk off the pitch but I will speak with the players about it first.
      “If such a thing happens and the referee stops the game, the players of the opposing team say ‘we are not going to take this’ and they walk off the pitch then you would feel a lot better as a player and it would make a greater statement rather than to do it alone.”
      Meanwhile, Raheem Sterling says winning the Euros with England would top anything he has achieved with Manchester City.
      He said: “I think winning something with the national team, England, would definitely be the greatest achievement that I could possibly do.
      “I mean not me…that the team could possibly achieve. You win stuff with your clubs and it’s a great achievement, but this is on a bigger scale.
      “You’re representing a nation, a country. So to achieve something with England would be the biggest thing to happen in my footballing career.”
      And finally, France suffered a DOUBLE injury scare on Thursday when wingers Thomas Lemar and Marcus Thuram both hobbled out of training.
      The two stars both looked to be in pain during a recovery session following yesterday’s 2-2 draw with Portugal.
      Tottenham transfer target Thuram, 23, looked to be visibly in pain as he fell to his knees on the training ground in the Hungarian capital Budapest.
      While Atletico Madrid star Lemar, 25, was clearly distraught as he put his head in his hands while being helped off the field by two others.
      Didier Deschamps now faces an anxious wait over their fitness after setting up a last-16 clash against Switzerland on Monday.
      MORE FROM RASHFORD
      And Rashford admits he has been unable to produce his best form in recent months.
      He said: “Obviously I am not performing at my best, and what I know I can perform to.
      “Whatever that is down to, it doesn’t really matter because it has been going on since early on in the season.
      “I managed to get through the season with United. I think I had 36 goal involvements so I can’t look back at the year and say ‘mmm, I should have taken time off to do this and do that.’
      “I just want to be available for every game.”
      RASH DECISION
      Marcus Rashford could face shoulder surgery after the Euros, making him a doubt for the start of Manchester United’s Premier League campaign.
      Rashford has played through pain to ensure his place in England’s squad for the Euros.
      And asked whether he needed an operation, Man Utd ace Rashford, 23, said: “I have to decide after – it’s either an operation or I don’t get an operation on my shoulder.
      “I’m not 100 per cent sure if I need it yet. I’ll finish strongly here and like I said I’ve got a few weeks off to just relax and decide what I’m going to do.
      “The doctors have not said how long I’d be out for.
      “The reason I don’t know is that when the season was going, and before I came here (with England), I knew there was no chance I was going to be getting the operation so I did not know how long the operation would put me out for.
      “I am fully concentrated on here (England). When the tournament is finished then I will ask the question.
      “But to get to this stage where I am now, it was a massive aim of mine back at the beginning of the season. I’m prepared mentally and physically for games.”

      MORE FROM STERLING
      The City winger is unfazed by the prospect of renewing the historic rivalry with Germany next Tuesday at Wembley.
      Sterling, who has never played against the Germans before, told the Lions’ Den show: “Those games were crazy. The France one was high quality throughout, both teams.
      “We knew we were going to get second place in that group and we knew that it was going to be a challenge. In this tournament you need these challenges.
      “We need now to go against Germany and we need a big performance. If you’re going to win this tournament, if you’re going to be in with a shout
      “You’ve got to put in these big performances against these big sides, and that’s what we are going to try to do on Tuesday. I’m not really looking into the history, the battles.
      “What has happened, has happened. All we can do us be here now and be present.”

      STERLING EFFORT
      Raheem Sterling says winning the Euros with England would top anything he has achieved with Manchester City.
      He said: “I think winning something with the national team, England, would definitely be the greatest achievement that I could possibly do.
      “I mean not me…that the team could possibly achieve. You win stuff with your clubs and it’s a great achievement, but this is on a bigger scale.
      “You’re representing a nation, a country. So to achieve something with England would be the biggest thing to happen in my footballing career.”
      WINGING IT
      France suffered a DOUBLE injury scare on Thursday when wingers Thomas Lemar and Marcus Thuram both hobbled out of training.
      The two stars both looked to be in pain during a recovery session following yesterday’s 2-2 draw with Portugal.
      Tottenham transfer target Thuram, 23, looked to be visibly in pain as he fell to his knees on the training ground in the Hungarian capital Budapest.
      While Atletico Madrid star Lemar, 25, was clearly distraught as he put his head in his hands while being helped off the field by two others.
      Didier Deschamps now faces an anxious wait over their fitness after setting up a last-16 clash against Switzerland on Monday.

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      in Motorsport

      F1 Styrian Grand Prix LIVE RESULTS: Latest updates as practice gets UNDERWAY – UK start time, stream, TV channel

      by

      THE F1 roadshow heads to Austria this weekend for the Styrian Grand Prix.Champ Lewis Hamilton currently sits 12 points behind Max Verstappen in a thrilling title race.

      Practice: 10.30am & 2pm Friday / 11am Saturday
      Qualifying: 2pm, Saturday
      Race time: 2pm, Sunday
      TV/ live stream: Sky Sports F1

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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      LEW CAN’T BE SERIOUS
      Christian Horner has taken a pop at Lewis Hamilton after the F1 champion raised suspicion over whether Max Verstappen’s Red Bull was legal.
      Hamilton repeatedly made reference to Red Bull’s new Honda engine and their superior “straight-line speed” following Verstappen’s win in France.
      F1 rules mean that teams must run the same engine specification all season and cannot perform upgrades.
      That was confirmed by Merc boss Toto Wolff ahead of the Austrian GP, who also admitted their rivals’ speed was due to better aerodynamics, prompting a reaction from Horner.
      The Red Bull boss said: “I think Toto has answered it very well and I think that maybe he should explain it to his driver.
      “I listen with interest sometimes to the theories that Lewis has, which are some way from reality.
      “We run less drag, less rear wing, and as a result go quicker down the straights sometimes.”
      Mercedes and Red Bull have been at loggerheads this season over the legality of wings and tyre pressures as they both look to exploit holes in the rulebook.
      And the row continues to rumble on, as Red Bull have lobbied the sport’s governing body, the FIA, to look into Merc’s front wing.
      Verstappen told SunSport: “I do think that when you are checking the rear wing, you should also be checking the front wing.
      “The front wing has a bigger effect on the car. It’s up to the FIA now to do these checks, because clearly they have done checks on the rear wings.”
      TOP TEN FP2
      1. VER – 1:05.4122. RIC – Good performance after slow start in McLaren3. OCO4. HAM – Just over three tenths back5. ALO – Second-highest lap count (39)6. VET – Briefly led an Aston Martin one-two as conditions improved7. NOR8. STR9. PER10. GIO
      Credit: AP
      CHEQUERED FLAG
      Well this looked like a session disrupted by downpours as it got underway.
      Instead, we saw more pieces of gravel thrown into the air than drops of rain – plus a pit-lane spin from one Valtteri Bottas.
      Max Verstappen leads the timesheet having also claimed FP1.
      FIVE TO GO
      Will anyone come in for a fresh crack at a hot lap?
      The conditions have been surprisingly good for the teams to get in some long runs, amid the threat of rain.
      STEINER NONPLUSSED
      Haas team boss Guenther Steiner tells Sky Sports that Valtteri Bottas’ spin is just ‘one of those things’.
      He knows that every driver wants to put rubber down on their pit box to help the grip on their future launches, although spinning off while doing so is not recommended.
      MAC ATTACK
      McLaren’s pit crew were out as Valtteri Bottas flew past them, sideways.
      It was very fortunate that his Mercedes did not collect anybody and race director Michael Masi is told over radio: “That’s absolutely ridiculous, he could have taken our guys out.”
      FIFTEEN-POINT TURN
      That was Valtteri Bottas getting on the gas as he left the pit lane to get some quick heat into his tyres.
      But the wheelspin as he hit the painted tarmac spun his car, which mercifully avoided the walls on both sides.
      After a bit of jimmying from his mechanics, the Finn is underway.

      OOPSIE
      Valtteri Bottas has just spun in the pit lane.
      Not a good idea.
      GIVES YOU WINGS
      Max Verstappen certainly enjoying the Red Bull’s speed this session and is top with a 1:05.412, with Sergio Perez back in ninth.
      But the race simulations mean lap counters are also pretty key with the entire pack clocking up 20 times around the Red Bull Ring so far, aside from Nicholas Latifi (17) and Pierre Gasly (zero).
      POWER UP
      Christian Horner has taken a pop at Lewis Hamilton after the F1 champion raised suspicion over whether Max Verstappen’s Red Bull was legal.
      Hamilton repeatedly made reference to Red Bull’s new Honda engine and their superior “straight-line speed” following Verstappen’s win in France.
      F1 rules mean that teams must run the same engine specification all season and cannot perform upgrades.
      That was confirmed by Merc boss Toto Wolff ahead of the Austrian GP, who also admitted their rivals’ speed was due to better aerodynamics, prompting a reaction from Horner.
      The Red Bull boss said: “I think Toto has answered it very well and I think that maybe he should explain it to his driver.
      “I listen with interest sometimes to the theories that Lewis has, which are some way from reality.
      “We run less drag, less rear wing, and as a result go quicker down the straights sometimes.”
      Credit: AFP
      RACE RUNS
      The fuel is loaded up and tyres pushed to the limit with the pack undertaking race simulations.
      They will be very happy to see conditions remain dry for the time being.
      TOP TEN AT HALFWAY
      1. VER2. RIC3. OCO4. HAM5. ALO6. VET7. NOR8. STR9. PER10. SAI
      PAIN IN THE GAS
      Nothing from Pierre Gasly this session and his chances of a runout look slim.
      A power unit issue is denying us the Frenchman for the time being.
      Perhaps Nikita Mazepin was wishing he was back in the pits as he skidded across the gravel after Turn 4, knocking off Carlos Sainz’s naming rights for the bumpy patch.
      Credit: Splash
      LEW KNOW IT
      And there it goes.
      Lewis Hamilton bumps downs Sebastian Vettel and takes first with a 1:05.796.
      Times are tumbling but the clouds are gathering, so this short period could decide the session with Esteban Ocon now jumping Hamilton.
      ASTON’S MERRY WITH GOLD
      It’s a one-two for Aston Martin!
      The rain has momentarily subsided, the Soft tyres are on and Sebastian Vettel is leading FP2, just ahead of Lance Stroll.
      BOTTAS ON THE SOFTS
      No Hard tyre nonsense for Valtteri Bottas.
      Going straight on the Softs, the Mercedes star looks to be setting a qualifying type hot lap and yet is still slower than Max Verstappen.
      The Dutchman remains top despite being on a slower tyre…
      Meanwhile Lewis Hamilton is in the pits after tickling Carlos Sainz’s gravel at Turn 4.
      Credit: Getty
      SAINZ OFF
      Carlos Sainz skirts across the gravel after going around Turn 4.
      The Spaniard luckily doesn’t collect anyone as he reverses back onto the track with a handful of stones brought back to the pits for his troubles.
      MOST DRIVERS OUT NOW
      Just Valtteri Bottas and Pierre Gasly yet to hit the track.
      Red Bull boss Christian Horner is hanging back from his seat on the pit wall to get a feel for the weather, but Sergio Perez radios in to say the rain is not yet heavy enough to worry about.
      RAIN IS COMING
      Spots of rain noticeable on Max Verstappen’s camera as he races around on the Hards, putting in a 1:06.722 to go top.
      Lewis Hamilton is also on the Hards potentially to get some race simulating done before the damp arrives.
      AWAY WE GO
      It’s dry for FP2 in the Styrian hills of southern Austria – but rain is predicted at some point this session.
      FIVE MINUTE WARNING
      FP2 is almost upon us at Red Bull Ring…
      Stick with us for our (hopefully) uninterrupted coverage!
      HIT THE BUTTON
      Lewis Hamilton’s biggest challenge in his glittering F1 career could be beating George Russell – according to Jenson Button.
      Button said: “It will be a big shift for Lewis to have a young kiddie come to his team who has already proven himself to be very, very quick in that car.
      “That is mentally tough. It is going to be a challenge and if Lewis comes out on top, it will be his biggest achievement.
      “It’s funny. George jumped into Lewis’ car in Bahrain and Lewis wished him luck. But Lewis didn’t comment at all on social media about how he went in the race because I think he was shocked by how quick he was.
      “There is definitely something there and if they are team-mates it is going to be tricky for Lewis which is what we all want to see.
      “But it is probably not what Mercedes want. It is much easier having a driver that is not as quick as Lewis in the team as long as he is bringing in the points. But at the moment, that’s the problem – Valtteri isn’t doing that.”
      W SERIES UNDERWAY
      The first practice session for the 2021 W Series competition has just finished up at Red Bull Ring.
      British racer Alice Powell tops the timesheet ahead of Beitske Visser, Sarah Moore and reigning champ Jamie Chadwick.
      The W Series is racing this week and next alongside F1, before trips to Silverstone, Hungary, Spa, Zandvoort, Austin and Mexico.

      LEW CONCERN
      Lewis Hamilton has admitted his fears at having 400,000 fans come through the gates at Silverstone next month.
      The UK Government gave the green light to a full house for the British Grand Prix BEFORE the expected full reopening of the country, as a test event.
      But Hamilton said: “I can’t tell you how excited I am to see people and to see the British crowds because it is the best crowd of the whole year.
      “[But] I watch the news so I hear about the cases going up massively in the UK. So, on that side, I worry for people.
      “Look, I don’t want to turn it into a negative. As I said, I am excited to see so many people.
      “But I know that UK rates have increased since people are loosening up a little bit and not everyone is vaccinated.
      “So, I do worry about people. It feels a bit premature to me. But it’s not my choice if people go there. I hope we learn something from it, and I hope everyone just stays safe, keeps their mask on.”
      LIMITLESS
      FP1 saw a number of drivers have their times deleted for infringing on track limits.
      The final two corners at Red Bull Ring are the particular danger zones this weekend and at least one wheel must be planted on the red-and-white kerbs for the right-handers.

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      Jack Grealish to Man City EXCLUSIVE update, Chelsea set to miss out on Hakimi, Spurs make ‘dizzying’ Lopetegui offer

      by

      JACK GREALISH is looking to be on his way to champions Manchester City this summer in a £100m deal, as exclusively reported by SunSport.Meanwhile, are making a final push to hire Rafa Benitez as their manager, despite a fan backlash over the appointment of the former Liverpool boss.
      Alisher Usmanov and Farhad Moshiri are looking for a new manager after Carlo Ancelotti left Goodison Park to return to Real Madrid.
      And Tottenham have been knocked back by yet another manager after making a “dizzying” offer to Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui.
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      GREAL DEAL
      Exclusive by Duncan Wright: Jack Grealish’s camp believe they have got the green light for him to leave Aston Villa — paving the way for a £100million move to Manchester City.
      City boss Pep Guardiola is desperate to bring the England star to the Etihad this summer as he plots a title defence and to finally win the club’s first Champions League.
      Villa have remained insistent they do not want to sell the 25-year-old, who has four years left to run on the current deal with his boyhood club.
      But SunSport understands talks with Grealish’s agents Stellar over the past few weeks have left his team happy they now have an agreement which would allow the playmaker to quit once the Euros are over.
      City have indicated they would be willing to break the current British transfer record, which sits at the £89m Manchester United paid Juventus for Paul Pogba.
      And with Grealish wanting to step up to Champions League football, Villa understand they cannot stand in his way.
      City have delayed any official offer while the player is on Euros duty.
      But they are expected to make their move in July so Grealish can begin pre-season training with them.
      SPURS GO POTTY
      Graham Potter has emerged as the latest front-runner to be the new Tottenham manager.
      But former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo is also back in contention after another day of drama in the North London club’s long-running hunt.
      Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is keen on Brighton boss Potter being as successful as his last raid for a South Coast rookie, when he snapped up Mauricio Pochettino from Southampton in 2014.
      The Seagulls chief is earning widespread praise for improving the Sussex strugglers’ style of play while managing to keep them in the Premier League.
      Levy has been searching for a permanent boss since sacking Jose Mourinho in April.

      MORE FROM STERLING
      The City winger is unfazed by the prospect of renewing the historic rivalry with Germany next Tuesday at Wembley.
      Sterling, who has never played against the Germans before, told the Lions’ Den show: “Those games were crazy. The France one was high quality throughout, both teams.
      “We knew we were going to get second place in that group and we knew that it was going to be a challenge. In this tournament you need these challenges.
      “We need now to go against Germany and we need a big performance. If you’re going to win this tournament, if you’re going to be in with a shout
      “You’ve got to put in these big performances against these big sides, and that’s what we are going to try to do on Tuesday. I’m not really looking into the history, the battles.
      “What has happened, has happened. All we can do us be here now and be present.”

      STERLING EFFORT
      Raheem Sterling says winning the Euros with England would top anything he has achieved with Manchester City.
      He said: “I think winning something with the national team, England, would definitely be the greatest achievement that I could possibly do.
      “I mean not me…that the team could possibly achieve. You win stuff with your clubs and it’s a great achievement, but this is on a bigger scale.
      “You’re representing a nation, a country. So to achieve something with England would be the biggest thing to happen in my footballing career.”
      WINGING IT
      France suffered a DOUBLE injury scare on Thursday when wingers Thomas Lemar and Marcus Thuram both hobbled out of training.
      The two stars both looked to be in pain during a recovery session following yesterday’s 2-2 draw with Portugal.
      Tottenham transfer target Thuram, 23, looked to be visibly in pain as he fell to his knees on the training ground in the Hungarian capital Budapest.
      While Atletico Madrid star Lemar, 25, was clearly distraught as he put his head in his hands while being helped off the field by two others.
      Didier Deschamps now faces an anxious wait over their fitness after setting up a last-16 clash against Switzerland on Monday.

      LEED THE CHARGE
      Paul Robinson has admitted that he is “gutted” Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Ben White.
      He told Football Insider: “I would have liked both of my old clubs Leeds and Tottenham to have gone in for Ben White.
      “They are missing out on a top-class player. I have been banging Ben White’s drum for a long time now.
      “If he goes to Arsenal he is going to be missing out on playing Champions League football.
      “I’m sure there is clubs in the Champions League who would be interested in a player like Ben White.
      “Arsenal would not be my first choice if I was him. Logistically the move may work for him but a player of his quality should be playing at the highest level.
      “He is definitely good enough to play in the Champions League. Is he realistically going to get to play in the Champions League with Arsenal?”
      GUNNER GO
      Arsenal defender Konstantinos Mavropanos has joined Stuttgart on a season-long loan.
      The Bundesliga outfit have paid a loan fee of £500,000 to bring him back to the club, having spent the 2020/21 season on loan too.
      Stuttgart have the option to make the move permanent in a deal worth up to £5million, according to The Athletic.
      And Mavropanos will become a Stuttgart player if they remain in the top-flight this season.
      They will be obligated to pay £3million for the defender, and bonuses up to £1.5m are also included in the deal.
      The 23-year-old has agreed a three-year deal should the permanent transfer clause be activated.

      JA-DONE DEAL
      Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a deal for Jadon Sancho.
      Manchester United officially told BVB they’re prepared to pay €85m for Sancho. 🚨Add ons included as part of the negotiation ‘to reach an agreement soon’.BVB still asking for €95m guaranteed. Clubs in talks about add ons structure.Jadon made it clear: he wants Man Utd.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 24, 2021

      NO MOUR TROUBLE
      Jose Mourinho has held talks with Henrikh Mkhitaryan since joining Roma to repair his relationship with midfielder, according to reports.
      And the pair have reportedly cleared the air after falling out at Manchester United, with Mkhitaryan starting just 26 league games in 18 months under Mourinho.
      Mkhitaryan, 32, even agreed a new one-year deal with the Serie A club at the beginning of the month.
      He is happy to play under the Portuguese, and was convinced to stay after the pair held a meeting, according to Corriere dello Sport.
      The report claims the duo have even joked with each other about their time at Old Trafford, and it is now firmly behind them.
      SHIRT’S OUT OF LUCK
      Tottenham’s new third kit for the upcoming season has been leaked online.
      And fans are not happy with the purple-and-lime hybrid, with one punter joking: No wonder Harry Kane wants out!

      WHITE HOT
      Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a £50million deal for Brighton defender Ben White.
      The Gunners have set their sights on the England prospect and talks are planned, according to The Athletic, ahead of the potential move.
      White was rewarded for his impressive form at Brighton with a place in the England squad for Euro 2020 after Trent Alexander-Arnold pulled out through injury.
      Arsenal reportedly offered £40m for the 23-year-old but Brighton are determined to hold out for £10m more.
      SAL YA LATER
      William Saliba is set for a THIRD loan move away from Arsenal with several clubs reportedly tracking the defender.
      The Gunners signed the Frenchman from Saint-Etienne for £27million two years ago, but he is yet to play a competitive game for the club.
      And another stint away from the club is deemed likely, as reported by French outlet FootMercato.
      Arteta is set to take a look at Saliba when pre-season begins but is described as leaning towards a loan transfer, with the player under contract to 2024.
      As many as nine clubs are already named as interested in a potential deal.
      Southampton and Newcastle are the two English sides reportedly keen along with Bayer Leverkusen, Nice, Rennes, Marseille, Lille, and two unnamed clubs in Italy.
      TOP FRIENDS
      Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema shared a heartwarming chat at half-time of their Euro 2020 encounter.
      The former Real Madrid pals formed two-thirds of the feared BBC triumvirate at the Bernabeu, alongside Gareth Bale.
      Therefore, their Group F meeting on Wednesday was a personal reunion inside a hugely-anticipated Euros clash.
      At half-time and with the score one apiece, the forwards embraced and smiled as they shared a brief chat.
      They then swapped shirts as they entered the tunnel in Budapest, continuing the discussion towards the dressing rooms.

      IN THE BAG
      West Brom have announced that Valerian Ismael has been named as their new gaffer.
      The Frenchman joins on a four-year deal from fellow Championship side Barnsley.
      Baggies Chief Executive Officer, Xu Ke, said: “We are all aware of what will be required in order to be successful and player recruitment will be of the utmost importance.
      “Valerien and I will immediately focus on preparing the squad for the new season, working together with Ian Pearce, our Head of Recruitment, to secure talented transfer targets who will strengthen us for the challenges ahead, ensuring fans are once more proud to support this great club.
      “I am excited to be working with Valérien and I am sure we will soon establish a strong relationship that will be to the benefit of the football club and its supporters.”

      GUNNER GET YA
      Arsenal are reportedly closing in on the signing of Ben White from Brighton.
      Brighton are holding out for a £50million fee for the centre-back, with the Gunners claimed to be willing to hand over £45m plus add-ons.
      The Athletic’s David Ornstein tweeted: “Arsenal moving closer to agreement with Brighton for Ben White.
      “#BHAFC want guaranteed ~£50m, #AFC offering ~£45m + £5m.
      “Face-to-face talks have taken place & negotiations continue over add-ons, payment structure etc. No other bidders yet.”
      TOTTLE TALE
      Tottenham has shared a damning insight into Tottenham in a message sent to Italy star Lorenzo Insigne.
      The former Napoli and AC Milan manager was linked with the vacant Spurs job earlier this month.
      But backlash from Tottenham supporters meant Daniel Levy quickly turned his focus to other candidates.
      Gattuso was a surprise name, with Levy turning to the Italian after failing to land Brendan Rodgers, Antonio Conte and Erik ten Hag.
      And after talks broke down to take over at the Tottenham Stadium Gattuso issued a harsh verdict of the running of the club.
      Insigne told Football Italia: “We’ve texted each other, he told me there was a bit of mess.
      “But now I am focused on the Euros, while he’s on holiday so I am not going to ask him such questions.”
      GUNNING RON
      Cristiano Ronaldo was subjected to ‘insults and beatings’ from Arsenal when the former Manchester United star tried tricks.
      That is the revelation by ex-Arsenal attacker Robert Pires on a harsh start to life in England for Ronaldo.
      Ronaldo’s introduction to English football was greeted with plenty of harsh challenges and Pires admitted opposing players did not appreciate the star’s showboating.
      Pires told Record: “Cristiano made feints and the English didn’t like it. It was just a beating. 
      “You can’t play like that against the English and you couldn’t do that at Highbury, Arsenal’s home. It was just insults and beatings. 
      “At first he didn’t stand it very well, it was complicated for him. Football in England is completely different.”
      VIRUS FEARS
      England are embroiled in a coronavirus scare after a Sky Sports reporter tested positive at the training base.
      The Daily Mail report how the journalist and cameraman were asked to leave St George’s Park.
      The reporter is now self-isolating at a hotel, just five days before England’s crunch Round of 16 clash with Germany.
      It comes after Three Lions duo Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell were forced to self-isolate for 10 days after coming into close contact with Billy Gilmour.
      A Sky Sports spokesperson commented: “A reporter is isolating in a hotel and awaiting the result of a PCR test. 
      “The camera operative tested negative and has left St George’s Park to self-isolate.”
      It remains unknown whether the positive test will have any further repercussions on anybody involved within the camp.
      EAGLES SOAR
      Crystal Palace are reportedly closing in on hiring Lucien Favre as their new boss to replace Roy Hodgson.
      Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano: “Lucien Favre is set to sign until June 2024 as new Crystal Palace manager.
      “Work permit process already started in order to complete the agreement as soon as possible – club confident after Bruno Lage case with Wolves.”
      AWAY WE GO
      Uefa have confirmed they have removed away goals from European competition from the start of the 2020-21 campaign.
      They tweeted: “The away goals rule will be removed from all UEFA club competitions from the 2021/22 season.
      “Ties in which the two teams score the same number of goals over the two legs will now have two 15-minute periods of extra time, and, if required, penalty kicks.
      “Statistics since the mid-1970s show a clear trend of continuous reduction in the gap between the number of home-away wins (from 61%-19% to 47%-30%) and the average number of goals per match scored at home-away (from 2.02-0.95 to 1.58-1.15) in men’s competitions.
      “Since 2009/10, the average goals per game have remained very steady in the #UWCL with the overall average of 1.92 for home teams and 1.6 for away teams.”
      GONNA NICK HIM
      Burnley are lining up a move for Czech Republic international keeper Jiri Pavlenka.
      The 6ft 5ins giant has spent the last four seasons as a virtual ever-present for Werder Bremen.
      However the German club has just been relegated from the Bundesliga, and has been forced to cut costs.
      Turf Moor officials have now reportedly approached their Bremen counterparts about a deal for Pavlenka.
      The 29-year-old has won 14 Czech Republic caps, but missed out on their Euro 2020 squad after suffering a back injury.
      He is a national teammate of Burnley striker Matej Vydra, 29.
      Clarets boss Sean Dyche is seeking a replacement if in-demand No.1 Nick Pope leaves during the summer.
      NUNO THE WISER
      Tottenham are reportedly set for a U-turn and will hold talks with Nuno Espirito Santo.
      Spurs ruled the former Wolves boss out of the running but appear to have had a change of heart as their managerial saga drags on.
      Tottenham ruled out appointing Nuno earlier this summer but the club have changed their mind and are poised for talks with him, according to Football Insider.
      Nuno left Wolves at the end of last season and has held talks with Everton and Crystal Palace over their vacant positions.
      But Spurs are now back in the running for the Portuguese coach after failing to land a host of managerial targets.
      Graham Potter is the latest name to be heavily linked with the job as his odds were slashed to move to Tottenham.
      LOW AND BEHOLD
      England will face old foes Germany for the first time since 2017 in their crunch Euro 2020 last-16 clash.
      The Three Lions take on Die Mannschaft on Tuesday at Wembley after Joachim Low’s side scraped second spot in their group.
      It has been just under four years since the pair last met, battling out an underwhelming 0-0 draw at the home of football.
      Boss Gareth Southgate picked England’s most inexperienced side since 1980 for the friendly as he looked to cast an eye over a number of names.
      Here’a how that starting XI looked.

      YOU MESSING?
      Barcelona are no closer to signing Lionel Messi up to a new contract, according to reports in Spain.
      The clock is ticking on the Argentine putting pen to paper before his deal expires on June 30.
      The LaLiga giants hoped to sort his future as soon as possible, allowing them to formulate a budget for the summer ahead and assure both fans and sponsors that they remain among football’s elite clubs.
      Yet it has now been claimed that an official contract offer has still not landed on Messi’s desk.
      And the player himself is even described as ‘undecided’ over whether to stay with Barcelona next season.
      That is according to Marca, who detail a two-year deal worth £850,000-a-week being put together by the Catalans.
      This is a sizeable cent pay cut on the astronomical deal that Messi was handed in 2017.
      SAN STORM
      Man Utd have reportedly told Borussia Dortmund they are willing to pay £73m for Jadon Sancho plus add-ons.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made signing the England international his priority after failing to secure his services last summer.
      Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Manchester United officially told BVB they’re prepared to pay €85m for Sancho.
      “Add-ons included as part of the negotiation ‘to reach an agreement soon’. BVB still asking for €95m guaranteed.
      “Clubs in talks about add-ons structure. Jadon made it clear: he wants Man Utd.”
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