Sport Live Blogs

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      England Euro 2020 squad confirmed with Alexander-Arnold IN, Lingard OUT but will face Austria, De Bruyne FIT for Belgium

      by

      GARETH SOUTHGATE has confirmed his 26-man England squad for Euro 2020.Trent Alexander-Arnold has made the cut, but it’s heartbreak for Aaron Ramsdale, Ollie Watkins, Ben White and Ben Godfrey.
      Bizarrely though, Jesse Lingard, who has not made the squad, will START against Austria according to Gareth Southgate.
      And Kevin de Bruyne has been declared fit for Belgium in Euro 2020.

      WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game

      Follow all of the latest news, build up and updates below…
      ‘TURN IT INTO A POSITIVE’ – EXCLUSIVE
      Bobby Zamora knows how those England players reeling from major-tournament heartbreak are feeling today.
      Zamora was left out of the Three Lions’ 2010 World Cup squad – although it was his own decision, rather than that of manager Fabio Capello.
      Zamora made the second of his two appearances for England the year after the 2010 World Cup, but that was that for the then 31-year-old when it came to playing for his country.
      He does feel there is a big incentive just 12 months away for those who missed out this time, though.
      The ex-Spurs and West Ham forward said: “There’s a World Cup next year, another opportunity very, very close.
      “Maybe you take it as a positive. It drives you to improve and to be better, to make sure you’re in the next squad.”
      HARRY’S CRY – EXCLUSIVE
      Harry Maguire woke up every morning hoping his ankle pain had gone but still hopes to be fit for the Euros.
      Speaking yesterday, Maguire, 28, was asked about his first thoughts as he sat on the turf waiting for medical attention at Villa Park after Anwar El Ghazi crunched him.
      He said: “The fear that I had was missing everything. I knew it was quite a bad injury. When I got the results of the scan, I knew it would be unlikely I would made the Europa League final — but we also never ruled it out.
      “I would jump out of bed and put weight on my ankle, which I probably should not have done, and test it to see if the pain was still there. Every morning, I woke up wishing the pain would be gone.
      “Unfortunately, it was not to be. I knew for me to start the Europa League final was very unlikely but I hoped to play some part. However it was out of reach and just not possible. Ahead of the final, I could still not run on the ankle.
      “But it is now improving and getting better, so I am just looking forward to the Euros.”

      HA HA HARA
      Jamie O’Hara seemed somewhat unhappy with Gareth Southgate’s confirmation that Jesse Lingard may play against Austria tomorrow.
      The former Tottenham man tweeted in a bluster before his TalkSPORT colleague Max Rushden attempted to calm him down with a fairly rational, logical and sensible reply.
      Well because the United, City and Chelsea players aren’t there. And because if the managers asks you to you do it.And in case someone gets injured you might get in.And because he’s a professional.And even if he scored 10, Southgate knows his squad. Peace and love 👍❤️— Max Rushden 💙 (@maxrushden) June 1, 2021

      PRIDE OF THE CITY
      Manchester City have revealed their pride at the FOUR Blues players included in Gareth Southgate’s final 26-man England sqaud.
      Raheem Sterling, Phil Foden, Kyle Walker and John Stones have all been selected and can expect to feature heavily in Southgate’s starting XI.

      JES WATCH IT
      England boss Gareth Southgate has revealed Jesse Lingard will start against Austria on Wednesday despite axing him from his Euro 2020 squad.
      Speaking at a press conference following the team announcement, the 50-year-old said: “Jesse did really well to get himself back in the race because back in January he was a millions miles away from being considered for an England squad.
      “I said in March that he’d had a fabulous few weeks but he was slightly fortunate because we were without three or four wide players at that time.
      “He was excellent for West Ham and he plays so well for us – we have total trust in the way he plays.
      “He’s reliable, he’s a great member of the group. He will play tomorrow because we’ve got [Jadon] Sancho ill, we’ve obviously got a lot of players not available and he’ll start to help the balance of the team.
      “He deserves that opportunity to go and show me that I’m wrong straight away. The lads that are with us are the standby list and we need to keep them match ready.”

      MEET THE THREE LIONS!
      This is England’s final 26-man squad for this summer’s Euros.

      HURT PRIDE
      Gareth Southgate has named his final 26-man Euro 2020 squad with some big names being left out.
      From the provisional 33-man squad, the likes of Jesse Lingard, Ben White, James Ward-Prowse and Ollie Watkins have been omitted.
      Meanwhile Manchester United youngster Mason Greenwood was forced to withdraw from the squad due to an underlying injury.
      A number of England stars were unlucky to not have even been named in the provisional squad, with Dele Alli, Eric Dier and Aaron Wan-Bissaka all missing out.
      And SunSport has produced a best XI of players who have been snubbed, with the starting team boasting 118 caps between them.

      THE GREAL DEAL
      Jack Grealish has urged his team-mates to ‘make it a summer to remember’ after he was included in Gareth Southgate’s final 26-man England squad.
      The Aston Villa star uploaded a picture of himself in an England shirt and wrote: “An absolute honour to make the squad for the Euros this summer.
      “I’ve always dreamt about playing in a major tournament for my country!
      “Let’s make it a summer to remember.”
      An absolute honour to make the squad for the Euros this summer. I’ve always dreamt about playing in a major tournament for my country! Let’s make it a summer to remember 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🦁 #ThreeLions pic.twitter.com/rEgOBMdfpi— Jack Grealish (@JackGrealish) June 1, 2021

      KYLE READY TO WALKER THE WALK
      Kyle Walker says he is delighted to be included in England’s Euros squad and can’t wait to link up with the squad.
      The Manchester City defender is one of four right-backs to be included in the 26-man group but has not joined the squad yet because of his involvement in Saturday’s Champions League final.

      TRENT HELL BENT ON SUCCESS
      Trent Alexander-Arnold has hit out at those who criticised him ahead of his selection for England’s 26-man Euro 2020 sqaud.
      The Liverpool ace is one of four right-backs selected by Gareth Southgate and many had called for him to be dropped after an up and down season for the Reds.
      And after the news was announced, Alexander-Arnold posted a picture of himself and tweeted: “Always believe in yourself. Silence the doubters.”

      ALL HAIL THE BACKUPS
      Gareth Southgate has heaped praise on the players he had to leave out his final 26-man squad and assured the public they are his backup squad and will be ready if called upon.
      Southgate axed Aaron Ramsdale (Sheff Utd), Ben Godfrey (Everton), Jesse Lingard (West Ham on loan from Man Utd), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa), Ben White (Brighton), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton) and Mason Greenwood (Man Utd – injured).
      And asked how the rejected stars reacted, Southgate said: “James was brilliant. As was Jesse, as was Ollie. Totally professional which is the character of the players.
      “All of the players that are here will be on the standby list. We can only change now on the basis of injuries so those guys will be training with us. And they’ll be involved in the matches as well. Not only because if we have an issue they need to be ready.
      “But they deserve it. Their commitment to stay with the group and their respect to their teammates to want to be here shows what playing for England means to this group of players.
      “And I think it’s important the public know that as sometimes people dismiss the importance of England caps and what it means to players.”
      KIERAN KEEPING CALM
      Kieran Trippier says he is delighted to be in the final 26-man England squad despite being one of four right-backs.
      The Atletico Madrid star won LaLiga this season and said: “It’s a very special moment
      “I know the competition I’ve got with the other right-backs.
      “It’s about playing well for my club which I’ve done this season.
      “I’m absolutely delighted to be in the 26 and looking forward to the tournament now.”
      UNLUCKY LIN
      Gareth Southgate says Jesse Lingard done incredibly well to get back in contention for an England spot and he wants the West Ham loanee match ready in case he gets called back into the sqaud.
      The Three Lions boss said: “Jesse has done incredibly well to get back in the race. Back in January he was a million miles from being selectable for an England squad.
      “I said in March he’d had a fabulous few weeks but you’d have to say he was a little fortunate because we were without around four wide players at that time.
      “He had a good spell with West Ham and he’s played so well for us with England, we have total trust in the way he plays, he’s reliable, he’s a great member of the group.
      “He will play tomorrow because we’ve got Jadon Sancho ill and we’ve obviously got a lot of players not available and for the balance of the team he’ll start.
      “So he deserves that opportunity to go and show me that I’m wrong. But also the lads that are with us, they’re the standby players and we’ve got to keep them match ready in case they come back into that squad.”

      HOLDING ON FOR HARRY
      Gareth Southgate is hoping to call on Harry Maguire despite his ankle ligament injury.
      He said: “We know exactly where he is at. Our medical team have been up with him in Manchester.
      “He has not travelled yet to us because of the quarantine issues coming back from Poland.
      “He’s got a bit to do to be available.
      “A bit like Hendo (Jordan Henderson). They’ve both got a bit to do but we feel the possibility that they can play a part and the fact they’re such fantastic characters to have around the group.
      “Given that we were able to pick 26, the opportunity to have those two with us was a straight forward one.”
      GARETH SOUTHGATE SPEAKS!
      Gareth Southgate says the four right-backs he picked are in England’s ‘best 26 footballers’.
      The Three Lions boss picked Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James, Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker.
      And he said: “Basically they’re in our best 26 footballers and that’s why they’re in the squad.
      “And if i could have picked a fifth or a sixth right-back I would have done.”

      HAVE YOUR SAY
      Aside from Mason Greenwood, who withdrew from the squad because of an injury problem, six unlucky England stars did not make the final cut.

      FAVOURITES FO SHO
      Austria boss Franco Foda claims England are ‘big favourites’ for this summer’s Euros.
      The Three Lions take on the German’s side at Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium tonight in a warm-up friendly. Former Sturm Graz boss Foda, 55, chief said: “In the last few years England have had a great development.
      “They have lots of young, dynamic players, especially offensively and they are always able in situations to do very well. They are very quick.
      “This is why they are one of the big favourites at the Euros.”
      Ex-West Ham and Stoke striker Marko Arnautovic misses out due to a thigh muscle tear, while Austria are sweating on the fitness of captain Julian Baumgartlinger.
      They will also be without former Newcastle loanee Valentino Lazaro, who would have had to quarantine had he travelled to England due to a visit to Dubai with Inter team-mate Romelu Lukaku last month.
      LUKE AWAY
      England boss Gareth Southgate will be sweating over Luke Shaw’s fitness ahead of Euro 2020 after the defender was spotted with a cast around his left wrist.
      The Manchester United star – who has been named in the Three Lions’ squad for the tournament – is expected to be the first-choice left-back under Southgate.
      But the 25-year-old looks to be a serious doubt to feature in Wednesday night’s friendly against Austria after being snapped sporting a slight injury.
      Shaw was caught by cameras with a cast on his left wrist while out with his girlfriend Anouska Santos in Altrincham town centre on Tuesday afternoon.
      And to add insult to injury, the former Southampton ace was greeted to a parking ticket when he returned to his Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
      Ben Chilwell could now start for England against Austria, with Southgate hoping Shaw will be fit to face Romania on Sunday. It will be England’s final fixture before they compete against Croatia in their first Euro 2020 group stage clash on June 13.

      THE GREAL DEAL
      Jack Grealish says he had to assure Gareth Southgate he would be fit for the Euros.
      The Aston Villa man has been included in the final 26-man squad but he was touch and go having picked up an injury towards the end of the season.
      Grealish and Southgate was regularly pictured together at Villa Park when the midfielder was watching from the stands and the Villa man said he had to reassure the boss he would be ready for the summer.

      SQUAD NUMBERS!
      England’s final squad numbers have been announced for this summer’s Euros.
      And it looks like Jordan Pickford will be No 1 goalie ahead of Dean Henderson while Kyle Walker looks set to be the first choice of the FOUR right-backs included.
      Harry Kane has been given the iconic No 9 shirt while Jack Grealish’s starting chances seem to have been given a boost having been given David Beckham’s famous No 7.

      GARETH HAS HIS SAY
      Gareth Southgate has spoken after his final 26-man squad for this summer’s Euros was announced…

      SEVEN LIONS AXED!
      Gareth Southgate was forced to cut seven players from his original 33-man group to leave him with his final 26-man squad.
      And here are the stars he had to disappoint…
      Aaron Ramsdale (Sheff Utd), Ben Godfrey (Everton), Jesse Lingard (West Ham on loan from Man Utd), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa), Ben White (Brighton), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton) and Mason Greenwood (Man Utd – injured).
      ENGLAND SQUAD ANNOUNCED!
      Gareth Southgate has included FOUR right-backs in his England squad for this summer’s Euros.
      Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker, Reece James and Kieran Trippier are all IN.
      But there is no room for Aaron Ramsdale, Ben Godfrey, Jesse Lingard, Ollie Watkins, Ben White, James Ward-Prowse or Mason Greenwood – who pulled out injured.

      SQUAD IS IN!
      HERE IS ENGLAND’S FINAL 26-MAN SQUAD FOR THIS SUMMER’S EUROS!

      JUST THREE MINUTES TO GO…
      Just moments to go until England’s final Euro 2020 squad is announced!
      Stay right here where SunSport will have all the up-to-the-minute news…
      Load more entries… More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Poland 1-1 Russia LIVE RESULT: Karavaev cancels out Swierczok strike as Lewandowski looks on in Euro 2020 warm-up

      by

      POLAND and Russia have finished all square in a fascinating Euro 2020 warm-up match.Jakub Swierczok gave Poland the lead after just three minutes but Vyacheslav Karavaev forced in an equaliser for the Russians.
      But the Poles will know they have more firepower in reserve as Robert Lewandowski was confined to the bench for the whole game.
      THAT’S ALL FOR TONIGHT
      It was a good warm-up for both Poland and Russia, with neither side picking up any injuries.
      Lots of international friendlies to come over the coming week or so in the build-up to Euro 2020.
      We’re covering England vs Austria, Holland vs Scotland and Wales vs France here at SunSport so keep an eye out for that!
      Goodnight.
      POST-MATCH REACTION
      Oh so true.
      After a bright start, this Poland-Russia friendly has died a death. #POLRUS.— Derek Rae (@RaeComm) June 1, 2021

      FULL-TIME STATS
      A real snooze-fest.

      FT: POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      Well, what a boring second half of international football!
      The two goals came in the first half, and there weren’t any real goal-scoring opportunities in the second.
      But these type of fixtures are all about fitness and not really winning – neither side picked up any injuries.
      And there was a lot of substitutions!
      PEEEEEEEEEEP!
      THE FULL-TIME WHISTLE GOES AT THE MUNICIPAL STADIUM!
      IT ENDS LEVEL!
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      90+2. 13 fouls apiece.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      90. Three additional minutes will be added on thanks to the large number of substitutions!
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      89. Kozlowski receives the ball on the turn 35 yards from goal.
      The midfielder opens his body up well, but sends a shot sailing high and wide of the target.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      87. Kozlowski goes down after coming off worse in a challenge with Diveev, it doesn’t look too serious though.
      The referee has let a fair bit go this game, largely due to the game being a friendly.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      85. Russian No4 and goal-scorer Karavayev is down with an injury, but it looks like cramp.
      Slight scare for the manager, and a substitution would be wise!
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      83. Still no real flow in the game, barely seen any action since the two first half goals.
      Neither team has gone close.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      81. Jozwiak drives Poland forward all the way to the edge of Russia’s penalty area.
      The Derby County midfielder works the ball wide to goal-scorer Swierczok on the right.
      And the striker tries to break into the box but Diveev times his tackle to perfection.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      79. SUBSTITUTION!
      Frankowski of Chicago Fire had a fine game, but it’s time for him to come off and make way for Linetty.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      77. Russia win a corner after some good work down the left-hand side.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      75. The tempo and intensity has really slowed down and you expect it really.
      It is only a friendly and neither side will want to pick up injuries ahead of the tournament.
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      73. Swierczok turns away well from his marker Kudryashov, but is caught and goes to ground.
      Kudryashov – already on a booking – holds his hands up and pleads with the referee and is lucky not to see a second yellow.
      At Euro 2020, he won’t be so lucky.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      71. Brighton midfielder Moder cuts inside off the left-hand side.
      And instead of clipping the ball to the far post, Moder goes for goal himself – but his effort comfortably clears the crossbar.
      The No16 has to do better there, there was better options on at the time.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      69. SUBSTITUTION!
      Leeds midfielder has earned himself a rest, and he is replaced by Kozlowski.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      68. Poland are preparing to bring on another player, a matter of minutes after the last substitution.
      Completely ruins the flow of the game. Start-stop start-stop.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      66. SUBSTITUTIONS!
      Both teams are making changes, expect many more tonight as it is a friendly.
      Big man Dzyuba’s night comes to an end and he is replaced by Zabolotny.
      And left-back Kuzyayev is taken off for 37-year-old veteran Zhirkov.
      Poland also make a change and Brighton’s Moder is on for Swiderski and will play out wide on the right-hand side.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      64. Russia are holding onto the ball really well and they have Poland pinned back inside their own half.
      Zobnin receives the ball out wide on the right-hand side and delivers a cross into the box.
      But Poland clear.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      62. DOUBLE SUBSTITUTION!
      There’s a change in goal for Russia and Shunin is taken off for Safonov, and Miranchuk’s night also comes to an end.
      And he is replaced by Zhemaletdinov.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      60. Russia have take a hold of the game, controlling 54 per cent of the ball compared to Poland’s 46.
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      58. Klich tries to skilfully get away from Mukhin close to the touchline.
      But the ball knocks off the Leeds midfielder and goes out of play for a Russian throw-in.
      POLAND 1-1 RUSSIA
      56. TRIPLE SUBSTITUTION!
      Bednarek, Jozwiak and Bereszynski come on for Kedziora, Piatkowski and Kownacki.
      And for Russia, Mukhin is on and he’s replacing No7 Ozdoyev.
      Load more entries… More

    • 213 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Croatia 1-1 Armenia LIVE RESULT: Perisic header not enough as England’s Euro 2020 opponents fail to shine

      by

      CROATIA have failed to inspire after being held to a draw by Armenia in a Euro 2020 warm-up.Ivan Perisic headed England’s Euro 2020 opponents ahead in a low key first half in Velika Gorica.
      But Luka Modric was substituted at half time and since then the Croats were unable to gain a grip on the game.
      And a brilliant strike from Wbeymar Angulo ensured honours were even at the final whistle.
      THAT’S ALL FOR TONIGHT!!
      Croatia were held to a 1-1 draw by Armenia at Stadion Radnik.
      Iavn Perisic gave the home side the lead in the first half after he headed in from a Luke Modric corner.
      Armenia drew level after Wbeymar Angulo flashed a wonder strike past Dominik Livakovic in the 72nd minute.
      Both sides threatened to win it but ended up settling for a draw.
      Join us again on SunSport for more live blogs as the build up to the Euros continues.
      Goodnight!!!!!
      ANGULO’S WONDER GOAL!!!!!!!!!

      CROATIA’S SQUAD FOR THE EUROS

      A LOT OF LOVE FOR CAPARROS

      STAT ATTACK
      Armenia are now unbeaten in their last nine games.
      REACTION FROM CAPARROS
      “Of course I am pleased with the game and the result, a lot of players who don’t usually get much time during the matches played today and I want to congratulate all the players with this game.”
      A GOAL FOR PERISIC TO MARK HIS 100TH CAP

      FULL TIME

      FULL TIME

      PEEEEEEEEEP!!!!!!!!!
      FULL TIME
      CROATIA 1-1 ARMENIA
      CROATIA 1-1 ARMENIA
      90. There will be 3 minutes of added time.
      CROATIA 1-1 ARMENIA
      87. Chance! A free0kick to Armenia on the right hand is rolled into the path of Barseghyan who fires over from just oyutside the box.
      Should’ve done better with that.
      CROATIA 1-1 ARMENIA
      84. Frenetic feel to the game as both sides are looking to win it. Kramaric forces a good save from Yurchenko.
      Croatia looking the more likely to find a winner.
      CROATIA 1-1 ARMENIA
      79. Chance! Hovhannisyan picks up the ball on the right, cuts inside and shoots towards goal and its saved magnificently by Livakovic!!!!
      The corner comes to nothing.
      CROATIA 1-1 ARMENIA
      76. Chance! Free kick down Croatia’s left hand side, it’s swung into the box and Skoric heads it wide!!!!!
      Great chance to win it!!!!!
      CROATIA 1-1 ARMENIA
      72. Angulo hits a sweet strike from just outside the box and it flies past Livakovic!!!!!
      Sensational goal!!! And Armenia are level!!!!!!!
      GOAL!!!!!!!!! ARMENIA!!!!!!!!!!
      CROATIA 1-0 ARMENIA
      69. Chance! Juranovic breaks down the right hand side and shoot but its well wide.
      Good turn of pace from Juranovic.
      CROATIA 1-0 ARMENIA
      66. Open feel to the game with both sides looking to get forward and attack.
      Both sides lacking a cutting edge and yet to create anything clear cut in the 2nd half.
      CROATIA 1-0 ARMENIA
      61. Sub for Croatia, Perisic is replaced by Badelj
      Subs for Armenia, Terteyan and Bayramyan replaced by Monroy and Shaghoyan
      CROATIA 1-0 ARMENIA
      56. Chance! Bayramyan is played through by a delightful through ball, he’s one on one with the keeepr but Livakovic races out gets a touch on the ball and it ricochets off Bayramyan for a goal kick!
      Armenia’s best chance of the game.
      CROATIA 1-0 ARMENIA
      54. Slower tempo about this 2nd half so far, Croatia happy to just keep the ball.
      The home side are starting to have just a little more possession.
      CROATIA 1-0 ARMENIA
      51. Good start to the second half from Armenia, they’re knocking the ball about nicely in these early stages.
      Slow start from the Croatians.
      CROATIA 1-0 ARMENIA
      45. Subs for Armenia Angulo, Melkonyan and Bichakchyan replace Adamyan, Babayan and Spertsyan
      CROATIA 1-0 ARMENIA
      45. Half time subs for Croatia Skoric, Juranovic, and Rebic replace Modric, Vrsaljko and Vida
      Load more entries… More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      England Euro 2020 squad LIVE: Alexander-Arnold and Bellingham IN but Watkins, White and Godfrey all miss out – latest

      by

      GARETH SOUTHGATE has announced his 26-man England squad for Euro 2020.Trent Alexander-Arnold has made the cut, but it’s heartbreak for Aaron Ramsdale, Ollie Watkins, Ben White and Ben Godfrey.
      England will face Austria tomorrow night in Middlesbrough as they begin their warm-up campaign – see the complete squad below.

      WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game

      Follow all of the latest news, build up and updates below…
      RIGHT-ON!
      Gareth Southgate has included FOUR right-backs in his England squad for this summer’s Euros.
      Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker, Reece James and Kieran Trippier are all IN.
      But there is no room for Aaron Ramsdale, Jesse Lingard, Ollie Watkins, Ben White, James Ward-Prowse or Mason Greenwood – who pulled out injured.

      SQUAD IS IN!
      HERE IS ENGLAND’S FINAL 26-MAN SQUAD FOR THIS SUMMER’S EUROS!

      JUST THREE MINUTES TO GO…
      Just moments to go until England’s final Euro 2020 squad is announced!
      Stay right here where SunSport will have all the up-to-the-minute news…
      CLOCK IS TICKING
      Just 25 minutes until Gareth Southgate names his England squad for the Euros.
      But stay with SunSport throughout the evening because we will have the squad number announcement, reaction to the final 26-man squad and of course words from the man himself after Southgate holds a press conference at 6pm.

      WHITTLING DOWN
      Just a reminder of the 33-man squad Gareth Southgate has to whittle down to 26 this afternoon.
      Mason Greenwood has already pulled out.
      Trent Alexander-Arnold is said to be IN while West Ham’s loan star Jesse Lingard will reportedly miss out.
      Ahead of naming his final #EURO2020 squad next week, Gareth Southgate has selected 33 players to join up with the #ThreeLions from this weekend as our preparations for this summer’s tournament get under way.— England (@England) May 25, 2021

      TRENT IN FOR RI
      Former England star Rio Ferdinand WOULD take Trent Alexander-Arnold to the Euros this summer.
      The Liverpool right-back is reportedly set to be picked by Gareth Southgate and Manchester United legend Ferdinand thinks it’s the correct decision.

      TRENT IN!
      Trent Alexander-Arnold WILL be included in England’s final Euro 2020 squad, according to Sky Sports News.
      The Liverpool right-back is competing with Premier League winner Kyle Walker, Champions League winner Reece James and LaLiga winner Kieran Trippier.
      His form has been somewhat up and down this season but Gareth Southgate is said to have decided to include him in his final group despite dropping him from the Three Lions squad earlier this season.
      SLEEP BRIGHT
      Spain have unleashed their secret weapon for Euro 2020 – a £31,000 miracle BED that promises to slow down the ageing process.
      Spain are aiming to reclaim the European Championship trophy after their bid to win three in a row was ended in 2016, with Portugal crowned winners.
      And it turns out Enrique’s men have a secret weapon in their bid to wrestle back the trophy from their neighbours. At least five Spain stars are taking advantage of a bed that promises to ‘reduce biological age’.
      Marcos Llorente, Koke, Aymeric Laporte, Alvaro Morata and Eric Garcia are all claimed to use the £31,000 Hogo bed, say AS.
      It has been scientifically proven that the bed slows down ageing – making it perfect for footballers. Hogo claim it is the only bed available on the market that ‘naturally reduces biological age’.
      A company statement said: “Hogo is the only scientifically guaranteed and patented rest system in the world that naturally reduces biological age by slowing down the exudation and inflammation process by which we age.”

      FIRST FRIENDLY
      Tomorrow, England kick off their Euro 2020 warm-up with a friendly against Austria.
      The match starts at 8pm from Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium.
      Follow the action live on ITV.

      COUNTDOWN
      We have not long to wait until the announcement of Gareth Southgate’s squad, at 5pm.
      An hour later, we will hear from the man himself as he explains his 26-man decision to the media.

      ANT-I HERO
      Antonio Cassano has criticised Marco Verratti ahead of Italy’s bid to win Euro 2020.
      The fiery former striker claimed Chelsea’s Jorginho is far more deserving of a place in Roberto Mancini’s line-up while talking on Christian Vieri’s Twitch channel.
      He claimed: “Verratti contributes few assists and few goals, he’s not a player like Pirlo who can turn around the team. 
      “Jorginho for me is much more useful and decisive in big games and big teams, he is very intelligent. 
      “Verratti changes very little in games, he doesn’t possess a long pass. He doesn’t even shoot.”
      Credit: Getty
      TARTAN ARMY
      Young players such as Billy Gilmour starring at Euro 2020 will be just the start of Scotland’s rise, hopes Ian Maxwell.
      The SFA chief executive said: “We are only ever going to be as good as the players we develop and we need to make sure we have the right structures and pathways in place to do that to give ourselves the best chance of qualifying on a regular basis. 
      “It would be great to think that Billy and Nathan [Patterson] and David [Turnbull] might be able to go from being part of the squad to getting themselves on the pitch at some point as well. 
      “It will be a great experience for them and it’s a really aspirational event for the rest of the players and the rest starting out in the first year of performance schools who are thinking about going down that route.”
      DAN IN THE DUMPS
      Daniel Sturridge still had the world at his feet back in 2016 — despite being part of England’s shameful Euros exit.
      The striker, who had scored in the Europa League final for Liverpool a few weeks earlier, was expected to push on at Anfield under Jurgen Klopp.
      But today — as England name their squad for this summer’s tournament — Sturridge is a free agent who last played a match 15 MONTHS ago.
      Read Charlie Wyett’s full feature on the striker here.
      SCOTS BLOW
      Scotland midfielder John Fleck has tested positive for coronavirus.
      With less than two weeks until their Euro 2020 kick-off, it means he will miss the upcoming friendly with the Netherlands ahead of further testing.
      Credit: PA
      BETTER WITH BENZE
      Therry Henry may be rejoining Belgium’s coaching staff for Euro 2020… but France’s frontline strikes fear into ex-striker.
      Karim Benzema’s return to Les Bleus has him wondering if anyone can stop their ‘crazy’ attack.
      Henry said: “We won the World Cup without Benzema and then suddenly you have the luxury of bringing Benzema back.
      “I’m happy to be French because when you see the sort of squad that we are going to have and you’re able to bring Benzema back… this is crazy. He’s one of the best strikers in the world.
      “You won the World Cup without him and now you are bringing back one of the best strikers in the world and once again you are talking about winning the World Cup and the Euros. France have Benzema, Mbappe and Griezmann.”

      DE BRUYNE BOOST
      Belgium are hoping to have Kevin De Bruyne fit for Euro 2020 after it was revealed that surgery would not be required on his eye socket and nose fractures.
      The midfielder was smashed out of the Champions League final by Antonio Rudiger on Saturday and national team boss Roberto Martinez has spoken of De Bruyne’s optimism.
      He said: “It is going to be a period that we need to monitor and we need to take a lot of extra tests to see where his condition is. We are going to be very cautious.
      “When I spoke with Kevin he looks quite positive and feels well. We have been fortunate within all the sad news when we saw the incident that even though Kevin has a double fracture, he doesn’t need surgery.
      “Needing surgery would make it very difficult for Kevin to be a part of the European Championships.”
      Credit: PA
      EXTRA DATA
      Gareth Southgate will pour plenty of stats knowledge into choosing his England squad.
      GPS provider STATSports have been called up to provide analysis of the 33 players vying for a spot during training ahead of today’s announcement.
      And chief operating officer Sean O’Connor told PA: “I think really savvy, good teams are using data to really understand what the players are capable of, the thresholds that those players will have, and then how to use that.
      “England are a great example with a fantastic backroom team using bespoke metrics and analysis, which the coaching staff and players all understand.
      “England, like a lot of our teams, will use the live data to be able to see on the spot if they’re hitting those markers or if they’re not, so they don’t in most cases overdo it as opposed to undercook it.”
      NO SANCHO
      A throat infection is keeping Jadon Sancho out of training this morning.
      The Borussia Dortmund winger is the only absentee, along with the 12 players involved in the Champions League final.

      FIVE ALIVE
      The England Euro 2020 squad will be announced at 5pm tonight.
      Shortly after, we will find out the squad numbers and Gareth Southgate will face the media.
      WARD TO TAKE
      Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse looks to have fallen at the final hurdle.
      Having been a regular in England squads and the Saints side, the playmaker was tipped to make the Euro 2020 plane.
      But The Guardian now report on Ward-Prowse being one of the seven left out today.
      Credit: EPA
      TRENT ON THE EDGE
      ESPN are reporting that Trent Alexander-Arnold will miss the cut for today’s announcment.
      Gareth Southgate has an embarrassment of riches at right-back with Reece James, Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker also in the provisional squad.
      And the Liverpool star was the most recent option left out, for the spring internationals.
      LINGARD KO?
      The Mail and The Athletic are reporting on Jesse Lingard missing out on a place in the Euro 2020 squad.
      A loan spell at West Ham saw the midfielder pick up some great form and a recall to the squad in the spring.
      But it may not have been enough as Gareth Southgate picks the final 26-man squad.
      Credit: Getty
      GREENWOOD OUT
      Mason Greenwood has withdrawn from England’s Euro 2020 squad.
      An ‘underlying’ injury will keep the striker at home this summer.
      A Manchester United statement reads: “Mason Greenwood has withdrawn from the provisional England Euro 2021 squad in order to recover fully from an underlying injury that also kept him out of the U21 Euros in March.
      “A further spell of tournament football would not be beneficial and Mason will remain at Manchester United to recuperate and prepare for pre-season training.”
      WHO’S LEFT?
      England are not the only team set to finalise their 26-man squad today.
      Italy have to cut two players by the 11pm deadline with Jorginho and Emerson Palmieri due to join Roberto Mancini’s camp following the Champions League final.
      Hungary, Italy, Russia and Ukraine must also whittle down their provisional lists.
      DEADLINE DAY
      So when will England announce the squad?
      Uefa have set an 11pm deadline to submit the final 26-man selection.
      And Gareth Southgate will face the media at 6pm tonight.
      As for when the actual list is first announced via the England social media channels… watch this space.
      Load more entries… More

    • 200 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Croatia vs Armenia LIVE: Stream, TV channel, score, and teams – Euro 2020 warm-up latest updates

      by

      CROATIA are hosting Armenia as they prepare to renew hostilities with England at Euro 2020.The Croats face the Three Lions in their opening group game at Wembley as they look for a repeat of their World Cup semi-final win three years ago.
      Opponents Armenia have not qualified for Euro 2020 but have started World Cup qualifying in excellent form.
      They have three wins out of three against Romania, Iceland and Liechtenstein to top a group also containing Germany.

      Croatia vs Armenia kicks off at 5pm UK time – 6pm in Croatia and 8pm in Armenia.
      Croatia vs Armenia is live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football in the UK.
      To stream the game live, head to your Sky Go app.
      Non-Sky Sports subscribers can still watch all the action live with a Now TV Day Pass from £9.99.
      Croatia XI: Livakovic, Barisic, Caleta-Car, Vida, Vrsaljko, Vlasic, Brozovic, Modric, Perisic, Kramaric, Brekalo
      Armenia XI: Yurchenko, Hovhannisyan, Calisir, Voskanyan, Terteryan, Spertsyan, Grigoryan, Bayramyan, Babayan, Adamyan, Barseghyan

      CROATIA 0-0 ARMENIA
      4. Chance! Babayan picks up the ball after a neat passage of play and fires just wide from outside the box.
      Good chance for the Armenians!
      CROATIA 0-0 ARMENIA
      2. Decent start from Croatia, they’re dominating play in these early stages.
      Slow tempo to the game so far.
      PEEEEEEEEEEP!!!!!!!!!!
      And the first half is off and underway!!!!!!!!!!
      FIVE MINUTES
      Just 5 minutes till kick-off!!!!!!!!!
      TEN MINUTES
      Just 10 minutes till kick-off!!!!!!!!!!!!
      FINAL PREPARATIONS

      HEAD TO HEAD
      This will be the first ever meeting between Croatia and Armenia.
      ALL BLACK FOR CROATIA

      STAT ATTACK
      Croatia have won just two of their last five games, Armenia have won their last five.
      PERISIC ON CAP 100
      “Of course, I am excited to be winning a 100th cap for Croatia. Only a handful of players can say they played 100 or more matches for Croatia.”
      DALIC ON LOVREN
      “Lovren is recovering better than all our expectations, his will and desire are not in question, but we have to be careful,
      “Maybe he won’t be ready for the first match, but we play on 18 and 23 June  and hope to stay in the tournament after that as well.”
      100 CAPS FOR PERISIC!!!!!

      CROATIA SUBS
      6. Lovren, 12. Kalinic, 14. Budimir, 15. Pasalic, 16. Skoric, 17. Rebic, 18. Orsic, 19. Badelj, 20 Petkovic, 22. Juranovic, 23. Sluga
      ARMENIA SUBS
      24. Ararat, 23. Bichakchcyan, 20. Melkonyan, 19. Hakobyan, 17. Khachumyan, 14. Shaghoyan, 9. Miranyan, 8. Muradyan, 6. Angulo, 16. Nersesyan, 12. Meliksetyan
      CROATIA STARTING XI
      Zlatko Dalic has gone with a 4-3-3 formation this afternoon:

      Livakovic, 2. Vrsaljko, 21. Vida, 5. Caleta-Car, 3. Barisic, 10. Modric, 11. Brozovic, 13. Vlasic, 7. Brekalo, 9. Kramaric, 4. Perisic

      ARMENIA STARTING XI
      Looks like Joaquin Caparros has gone for his tried and trusted 4-4-2:

      Yurchenko, 4. Voskanyan, 21. Terteryan, 13. Hovhannisyan, 5. Grigoryan, 15. Spertsyan, 7. Bayramyan, 25. Babayan, 11. Barseghyan, 22. Adamyan

      CAKE FOR KOVACIC!

      IMPRESSIVE FROM CROATIA’S FINEST

      CAPARROS ON MKHITARYAN

      DALIC ON THIS AFTERNOON’S GAME
      “We will save some of our players, but a good result is also important to us. We want to win for a better atmosphere.
      “We won’t calculate, but we will play at full strength. We will only distribute the minutes by players. We will also play different systems in each half. ”
      CROATIA V ARMENIA

      GOOD AFTERNOON
      Welcome to our live blog of Croatia v Armenia
      The Croats kick-off their preparations for this summer’s Euros this afternoon by hosting Armenia at Stadion Radnik in a friendly encounter.
      The away side have won their last five games, however they will not be taking part at the European Championship this summer.
      Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic is set to stick with his tried and trusted 4-2-3-1 formation, but Champions League winning midfielder Mateo Kovacic is likely to be rested after his late arrival following on from Chelsea’s heroics in Portugal.
      Former Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren is unlikely to feature due to a knee ligament injury, there are also concerns regarding Ante Rebic’s fitness.
      Domagoj Bradaric and Josko Gvardiol are both set to join up with the senior team after starting for the Under-21’s in their 2-1 defeat to Spain on Monday.
      Armenia boss Joaquin Caparros opted not to call up Roma midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
      The former Manchester United and Arsenal star took to social media to voice his frustration at being left out; however he is likely to be replaced by Gevorg Ghazaryan.
      Varazdat Haroyan, Khoren Bayramyan and Tigran Barseghyan all miss out due to suspension.
      Albert Kachumyan David Terteryan should make their international debuts.
      Load more entries… More

    • 213 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Ancelotti to Madrid ‘DONE DEAL’, Kane will ‘leave Tottenham even if Pochettino returns’, Traore to Chelsea transfer

      by

      CARLO ANCELOTTI is all set to leave Everton and take over the vacant manager’s role at Real Madrid.The Italian would be returning for a second spell at the Bernabeu after leaving in 2015.
      On the transfer front, reports suggest Harry Kane is ready to leave in an effort to win trophies – regardless of whether Mauricio Pochettino returns to Tottenham.

      WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game

      Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
      PEP SQUAWK
      Pep Guardiola ‘stole’ the Champions League crown from Manchester City with his bizarre team selection, according to Lothar Matthaus.
      The Etihad giants’ wait for a first European Cup continues after they slipped to a 1-0 defeat against Chelsea in Porto on Saturday night.
      The City boss opted to play three attack-minded midfielders in Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden. That meant both Rodri and Fernandinho were left on the bench, despite at least one playing almost every game all season.
      But Germany legend Matthaus has claimed the blame falls solely at the feet of Guardiola for his questionable pre-game tinkering.
      Matthaus told Sky Germany: “With his line-up he stole the Champions League from the club and the fans. [Guardiola] has to rightly listen to the harsh criticism from all sides.
      “I am sure that there will be internal discussions about whether to part with him. The players will doubt him since that final.”

      O MY DAYS
      Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Ajax keeper Andre Onana… despite the player’s doping ban.
      The 24-year-old was handed a 12-month suspension in February after the banned substance Furosemide was found in his urine.
      In a statement, Ajax claimed Onana had accidentally taken one of his wife’s pills while feeling unwell. Onana confirmed he believed the medication to be a ‘simple aspirin’.
      Ajax and the player have appealed the decision which could play a big role in his final transfer fee. Arsenal are said to have been in contact with Onana’s representatives since January.
      According to Dutch publication NOS, Arsenal will be able to land him for a bargain £1.7million fee if his ban is upheld.
      If his suspension is shortened or overturned, then the Gunners will be forced to fork out £7.75m.

      TOP DOGS
      This is the final eight-man shortlist for the Premier League’s Player of the Season award.
      Prem winners Kevin De Bruyne and Ruben Dias make the cut.
      As do West Ham star Tomas Soucek and Aston Villa’s England ace Jack Grealish.

      RIGHT ON KOU
      Sevilla have put a Premier League trio on high alert by placing defender Jules Kounde on the market, according to reports.
      Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal are all set to battle it out for the hugely talented 22-year-old centre-back.
      Kounde recently fuelled exit rumours by admitting he may ‘change clubs this summer’ to play in the biggest matches in world football.
      And Mundo Deportivo write how his club won’t stand in his way amidst the ongoing financial problems in football.
      Sevilla are prepared to cash in on their main starlet if they receive an offer in the region of £56million.
      Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is also keen but they may struggle to lure Kounde to North London without European football.

      THAT’S THE SPIRIT
      Everton are set to approach Nuno Espirito Santo to replace Carlo Ancelotti, it’s understood.
      The Italian Toffees boss, 61, is on the verge of completing a stunning return to Real Madrid. Ancelotti had been contracted until 2024, leaving Everton in shock at losing the multiple-Champions League winning coach.
      According to talkSPORT, the Toffees will ‘try’ to appoint former Wolves boss Nuno to replace the outgoing Ancelotti. The Portuguese, 47, left Wolves by mutual consent last month, after a low key season in which they finished 13th.
      But Nuno has plenty of credit in the bank from his four years at Molineux.
      The former Porto and Valencia boss stormed to the Championship title in his first season, before guiding Wolves to two consecutive seventh placed finishes in the Premier League.
      Nuno has also been loosely linked with the vacant Spurs job, but isn’t believed to be on the North Londoners’ radar.

      FAREWELL JAGS
      Sheffield United legend Phil Jagielka has been released by the Blades after 309 appearances for the club spanning 21 years.
      The centre-back is being let go when his contract expires at the end of this month.
      Jagielka, 38, will join John Lundstram, Simon Moore and Jack Rodwell in heading for the exit door along with youngsters Ashton Hall and Tommy Williams.
      Ethan Ampadu will return to Chelsea following his season-long loan.
      But Kean Bryan has been offered new terms.

      YOUNG GUNS
      Phil Foden, Declan Rice and Marcus Rashford have all made the final cut for the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season award.
      Mason Mount, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Ruben Dias, Bukayo Saka and Illan Meslier have also made the eight-man shortlist.

      OLE UP
      The Premier League have nominated Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to the five-man shortlist for Manager of the Year.
      Marcelo Bielsa, David Moyes, Brendan Rodgers and Pep Guardiola also make the cut.

      MAUR TO COME
      Maurizio Sarri is finally freed from his Juventus contract a year after being sacked, opening the way for a move to Lazio.
      The Italian is in talks to succeed Inter Milan-bound Simone Inzaghi on a three-year contract, according to Il Messaggero.
      A contract worth around £50,000-a-week is in the works.
      ARM WRESTLE
      Southampton could bid £15million for Blackburn star Adam Armstrong this summer.
      Daily Express report on Rovers’ facing Premier League interest for their star striker.
      But Newcastle’s 40 per cent sell-on fee for their academy product will mean the Championship side seeking £20m-plus for a sale.
      Credit: PA
      LILLE BRO
      Ligue 1 champions Lille are looking to the English second-tier for reinforcements, according to TEAMtalk.
      Bournemouth’s Arnaut Danjuma and Reading’s Michael Olise both starred as their sides missed out on promotion.
      And the Cherries would want north of £20million for their star winger, it is claimed.
      START THE CAR
      Carlo Ancelotti’s quickfire return to Real Madrid is being described as a ‘done deal’!
      The Everton boss has been linked by multiple outlets with Los Blancos today and The Athletic say negotiations have been swiftly completed.
      Credit: AFP
      YOU BLUETY
      Olivier Giroud announced his new TikTok account in style by sharing a clip of a world-class, training ground goal.
      The Chelsea striker, 34, teased fans over a ‘new social media account’ in a hopelessly-contrived conversation with the Blues’ official Twitter account.
      Hey @chelseafc admin 👋 can you send me a video of that goal I scored at Cobham last week? I want to share it. ⚽🙌 Thanks!— Olivier Giroud (@_OlivierGiroud_) June 1, 2021

      CLOCKING OFF
      Sergio Aguero shelled out a staggering £60,000 to buy every single member of Manchester City’s backroom staff a watch – AND enter them into a raffle to win his brand new car.
      The Argentine legend, 32, will leave the Etihad at the end of the month and join Barcelona and he had some incredible parting gifts for the 60-strong backroom staff at City after a decade at the club.
      According to The Athletic, the Man City icon bought everyone either a Tag Heuer of Hublot watch, with some models – including the Tag Heuer Formula 1, valued at up to £1,650.
      Each watch was engraved with the words: “Gracias! Kun Aguero.”
      The striker also entered every member of staff into a raffle to win his Range Rover Evoque. It’s claimed one of Aguero’s favourite Man City employees won the car – one of the City kit men.
      FIK AS THIEVES
      Chelsea have agreed to sell Fikayo Tomori to AC Milan for £25million, according to reports.
      Happy with his performances, Milan chiefs have been working on making the deal permanent.
      They were keen to negotiate a discount, however, on the £25m option to buy agreed in January’s loan transfer.
      But according to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea haven’t budged, with Milan set to pay the amount in full to acquire Tomori’s services on a full-time basis.
      Credit: AP
      DAN IN THE DUMPS
      Daniel Sturridge still had the world at his feet back in 2016 — despite being part of England’s shameful Euros exit.
      The striker, who had scored in the Europa League final for Liverpool a few weeks earlier, was expected to push on at Anfield under Jurgen Klopp.
      But today — as England name their squad for this summer’s tournament — Sturridge is a free agent who last played a match 15 MONTHS ago.
      Read Charlie Wyett’s full feature on the striker here.
      XHAK IT TO ME
      Roma are reportedly chasing a deal for Granit Xhaka before the start of the Euros.
      A £17million fee has been slapped on the midfielder by the Gunners.
      Former Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho and Xhaka are said to be big fans of one another with La Gazzetta dello Sport detailing a £13m-plus-bonuses offer.
      Cengiz Under or Amadou Diawara could even be offered as player exchange alternatives.
      Credit: EPA
      FOR-EMER MORE
      Napoli are back in for Chelsea defender Emerson Palmieri.
      The Blues’ third-choice left-back is said to cost £13million by Il Mattino, a fee which could be lowered through negotiations.
      Ben Chilwell and Marcos Alonso are ahead of the Italian in Thomas Tuchel’s pecking order.
      REAL DEAL
      Real Madrid have released their new 2021-22 home kit – complete with a blue and orange trim and spiral design.
      Los Blancos shared pictures of the strip on their club website, with the latest effort from adidas to be available to buy next week.
      And the new jersey – made from recycled materials – boasts a new colour scheme, with blue and orange replacing the traditional gold.

      EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
      A few international friendlies are on tonight to keep your football hunger at bay.
      England’s group opponents Croatia face Armenia while fellow Euro 2020 hopefuls Slovakia host Bulgaria (both 5pm) and Russia take on Poland (7.45pm).
      There is also plenty up for grabs in Northern Ireland’s ECL play-off as Cliftonville face Crusaders and Larne host Glenarvon (both 7.45pm).
      PEL OF A TEAM
      Pele has selected an ultra-attacking FIFA 21 side, available to challenge within the game.
      The Brazilian, arguably the greatest player of all time, attempted to cram in as many attacking players as he possibly could.
      Check this out…

      RAPH RIDE
      Manchester United and Chelsea are set to battle it out for defender Raphael Varane this summer, according to reports.
      And both are willing to offer DOUBLE the salary that Real Madrid have tabled.
      According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid will definitely sell Varane this in the coming months, should he refuse to sign a new deal.
      President Florentino Perez hopes to receive more than £60million for the defender – an easy fee for English sides to reach.
      Madrid are believed to have offered Varane around £100,000-a-week to stay at Santiago Bernabeu.
      But Man United and Chelsea are both willing to pay £200,000-a-week for his services.
      ANCEL DELIGHT
      Real Madrid have chosen Carlo Ancelotti to become their next manager, according to reports in Spain.
      The Everton boss coached the Bernabeu giants to Champions League glory during his first spell in Madrid, between 2013 and 2015.
      Marca claim Real want to seal the deal immediately after deciding that Mauricio Pochettino and Antonio Conte were not feasible options to replace Zinedine Zidane.
      Credit: AP
      DONN AND DUSTED
      Roma have entered the race for Gianluigi Donnarumma.
      According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Jose Mourinho is pushing his new club into an audacious bid for the goalkeeper.
      AC Milan are set to lose him on a free with contract negotiations failing.
      Agent Mino Raiola is being entrusted with Donnarumma’s future and a £165,000-a-week contract offer may be enough to seal the deal.
      However, the Italian is said to have other clubs on his mind.
      VOTING BOOTH
      Bruno Fernandes is among the nominees for the Premier League Player of the Season.
      Fans will vote on their favourite star online with Harry Kane, Ruben Dias and Mohamed Salah in the running.

      Load more entries… More

    • 225 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Sancho personal terms ‘mostly agreed’, Man Utd ‘lead Varane transfer race’, Saul Niguez link, Greenwood OUT of Euros

      by

      JADON SANCHO is on the cusp of agreeing personal terms with Man Utd, reports suggestWe’ve also the very latest on Raphael Varane and Saul Niquez as Old Trafford chiefs plot moves for the pair.
      While Mason Greenwood will not be appearing at Euro 2020 after pulling out of the squad through injury.
      WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game
      Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
      STEP ON THE GAZ
      Former Manchester United star Gary Pallister says England players dropped by Gareth Southgate this afternoon MUST use it as a positive.
      The Three Lions boss announces his 26-man group at 5pm and former Red Devil Pallister knows there will be players left disappointed like he was in the past.
      Speaking exclusively to SunSport, Pallister, 55, said: “It’s very difficult for players. There was Gazza who obviously he had that meltdown when Glenn [Hoddle] cut him from the squad.
      “It’s difficult. But it can only make you stronger. You have got to take from that that you haven’t made the cut and you want to make sure the next time it comes around you do make the cut.
      “You can either use it as a negative or a positive.
      “You can sit and wallow in the disappointment of it or you can say ‘right I will use this as a gee me up for the next time to get into a squad and I will make sure I’m not left out’. It is difficult but it is how you use that event in your life.”

      TOP DOGS
      Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has made the final eight-man shortlist for the Premier League’s Player of the Season award.
      Prem winners Kevin De Bruyne and Ruben Dias also make the cut.
      As do West Ham star Tomas Soucek and Aston Villa’s England ace Jack Grealish.

      THE ONE FER ME
      Bruno Fernandes’ stunning goal at home to Everton in February has been shortlisted for the Premier League’s Goal of the Season award.
      Edinson Cavani also makes the final nine for his delightful chip against Fulham last month.
      And United loanee Jesse Lingard also makes the cut for his breathtaking solo effort for West Ham at Wolves in April.

      YOUNG GUNS
      Manchester United star Marcus Rashford has made the final shortlist for the Premier League’s Young player of the Season award.
      Phil Foden, Ruben Dias, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Illan Meslier, Mason Mount, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka have also made the cut.

      OLE UP
      The Premier League have nominated Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to the five-man shortlist for Manager of the Year.
      Marcelo Bielsa, David Moyes, Brendan Rodgers and Pep Guardiola also make the cut.

      WRIGHT OR WRONG?
      Wayne Bridge has claimed Shaun Wright-Phillips and Aaron Lennon were HARDER to play against than Cristiano Ronaldo.
      The former Chelsea ace marked Ronaldo during his early years with Manchester United – but felt he often had his number.
      Bridge told BettingExpert: “I didn’t mind playing against Ronaldo. You always had to be switched on. 
      “He loved a step-over and was very skilful. He could sometimes make you look stupid, he was also very quick.
      “He wasn’t as quick as me over the first few yards, I always felt that I could stick with him and I always felt I did okay against him. 
      “It was always at the back of my mind that he was going to try and nutmeg me here or twist me about four times until I fall over.”
      FLASH THE CASH
      Sevilla have told Manchester United and Barcelona that they must stump up the funds to sign Jules Kounde – rather than formulate a player exchange deal.
      The Frenchman has opened the door to a move this summer after trying his luck at Euro 2020.
      And Mundo Deportivo claim that bidding will start at £56million despite his £70m release clause.
      Credit: AFP
      DECISION DAY
      Manchester United’s England stars will discover their Euro 2020 fate today.
      Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, Jesse Lingard, Dean Henderson and Harry Maguire are all waiting to hear whether they have made the cut.
      Gareth Southgate must cut his provisional 33-man squad down to 26 with the announcement due at 5pm.
      Mason Greenwood has already pulled out due to injury, confirmed this morning.
      ANOTHER NOMINATION
      Bruno Fernandes was nominated for the Premier League official Player of the Season earlier…
      And he is in the running for Goal of the Season too!
      The Portuguese playmaker’s wicked effort against Everton is joined by Edinson Cavani’s long-range lob on the nine-goal shortlist.

      ANOTHER NOMINATION
      Bruno Fernandes was nominated for the Premier League official Player of the Season earlier…
      And he is in the running for Goal of the Season too!
      The Portuguese playmaker’s wicked effort against Everton is joined by Edinson Cavani’s long-range lob on the nine-goal shortlist.

      MEMORY LANE
      It was a pretty decent debut season for Edinson Cavani, all things considered.

      NUN OTHER
      Nuno Mendes has distanced himself from speculation linking him with a summer move to Manchester United.
      The Sporting CP defender, 18, is highly rated amid interest from Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea – with United reportedly using Bruno Fernandes to encourage a move to Old Trafford.
      But he told Record: “I’m focused on Sporting.
      “I want to keep my feet on the ground. I’m not an elite player yet; I’m working to get there.”
      INTERNATIONAL ACTION
      Even though Copa America is in doubt, Fred and Brazil still have plenty of action to attend to this mont.
      Ecuador are next up in World Cup qualification on Friday night before a clash with Paraguay a week today.

      RAPH RIDE
      Manchester United and Chelsea are set to battle it out for defender Raphael Varane this summer, according to reports.
      And both are willing to offer DOUBLE the salary that Real Madrid have tabled.
      According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid will definitely sell Varane this in the coming months, should he refuse to sign a new deal.
      President Florentino Perez hopes to receive more than £60million for the defender – an easy fee for English sides to reach.
      Madrid are believed to have offered Varane around £100,000-a-week to stay at Santiago Bernabeu.
      But Man United and Chelsea are both willing to pay £200,000-a-week for his services.
      BRU KNOW WHAT TO DO
      Bruno Fernandes is among the nominees for the Premier League Player of the Season.
      Fans will vote on their favourite star online with Harry Kane, Ruben Dias and Mohamed Salah in the running.

      LINGARD KO?
      The Mail and The Athletic are reporting on Jesse Lingard missing out on a place in the Euro 2020 squad.
      A loan spell at West Ham saw the midfielder pick up some great form and a recall to the squad in the spring.
      But it may not have been enough as Gareth Southgate picks the final 26-man squad.
      Credit: Getty
      BIRTHDAY BOY
      Javier Hernandez turns 33 today!
      Many happy returns to the Mexican, currently with LA Galaxy after winning two Premier League titles with Manchester United.

      GREENWOOD OUT
      Mason Greenwood has withdrawn from England’s Euro 2020 squad.
      An ‘underlying’ injury will keep the striker at home this summer.
      A Manchester United statement reads: “Mason Greenwood has withdrawn from the provisional England Euro 2021 squad in order to recover fully from an underlying injury that also kept him out of the U21 Euros in March.
      “A further spell of tournament football would not be beneficial and Mason will remain at Manchester United to recuperate and prepare for pre-season training.”
      WOOD YOU KINDLY?
      Former Manchester United starlet Keith Gillespie has stated his lack of surprise at Ed Woodward being let go by the club following a number of failed transfers.
      He told Football Fancast: “There were a lot of players touted as coming to United that didn’t materialise.
      “It’s no surprise whatsoever to me. In terms of what the United fans want, they didn’t want him in, they don’t want the Glazers there.”
      SAUL’D OVER
      Saul Niguez is reportedly open to joining Manchester United.
      A release clause of around £60million could be lowered to nearer £40m after negotiations with Atletico Madrid, according to Daily Mirror.
      The midfielder has long been linked with rivals Manchester City.
      Credit: EPA
      HE’S THE JUAN
      Everton would be an ideal destination for Juan Mata, reckons Paddy Kenny.
      The ex-goalkeeper has told Football Insider that the Manchester United midfielder can still perform at a good level if he leaves Old Trafford when his contract expires later this month.
      Kenny said: “I don’t see why he wouldn’t want to go to Everton.
      “He’s still a good player and if it’s a chance for him to go there and play week in, week out then Everton should go for it.
      “I’m sure he could be a massive boost to that club if they could sign someone of his calibre.”
      CAL ME, MAYBE
      AC Milan are reportedly ready to let Hakan Calhanoglu leave for free if one more round of contract talks fail.
      The Turkish playmaker’s deal is up at the end of the month with Manchester United and Juventus hovering.
      According to TuttoMercatoWeb, negotiations have struggled and a fresh set of talks will be their last shot before heading in seperate directions.
      Credit: PA
      POWER STRUGGLE
      Fred, Alex Telles and Edinson Cavani could be set for a quiet summer.
      That is because Brazil has heaped more uncertainty on this year’s Copa America after distancing itself from confirmation by South American football chiefs it was stepping in to rescue the tournament.
      Argentina pulled out of plans to stage the competition over the weekend because of its Covid crisis, 10 days after initial co-host Colombia ruled itself out due to political protests.
      Conmebol announced late on Sunday the tournament would take place in Brazil, thanking the country’s president Jair Bolsonaro and his government for stepping in at such short notice.
      But overnight Bolsonaro’s Chief of Staff Luiz Eduardo Ramos insisted nothing had been decided following a wave of criticism at the idea one of the worst-hit Covid countries in the world would stage the Copa America.
      NINTCHDBPICT000612588184-1Credit: AFP
      GOOD MORNING RED DEVILS FANS
      Donny van de Beek will reportedly hold talks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer about his role at Manchester United.
      The Dutch midfielder made just FOUR starts this season following a £40million move from Ajax last summer.
      And the Telegraph claims Van de Beek is eager to discover if he forms part of the plans for next term.
      The playmaker also hopes a good showing with the Netherlands at Euro 2020 will help him finally earn a spot in United’s team.
      Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly likely to leave Juventus this summer.
      Corriere dello Sport claims the Portuguese legend is ready to quit Turin following the return of Max Allegri.
      Manchester United and PSG are both said to be interested.
      But Juve’s asking price, and his mammoth wage demands, could prevent either from making a bid.
      Finally, Diogo Dalot admits he is unsure if he still has a Man Utd future after spending the season on loan at AC Milan.
      He told Gazzetta: “I say that I had a fantastic year and met beautiful people.
      “It was a real pleasure to play for Milan but now I think about the Euros and I really don’t know (on his future) what will happen.”
      BETTER CALL SAUL
      Man United have been handed a major boost in the race to sign Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez, according to reports.
      The Spaniard will push for a move to the Red Devils with Atletico willing to cash in for £40million, say the Mirror.
      PSG and Juventus are also keen on Saul, who helped Atleti win LaLiga.
      But the player himself apparently favours an Old Trafford switch.

      Load more entries… More