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ARSENAL are plotting a £26m move for Nabil Fekir, should they fail in their approach to make Martin Odegaard’s loan permanent.Meanwhile Chelsea are reportedly looking to include Timo Werner in a potential swap deal for Erling Haaland with Borussia Dortmund.
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MOUNT-AIN TO CLIMB
Mason Mount has become the first Chelsea star to score or assist for England in three straight games since Frank Lampard.
Mount, 22, netted the second goal in last night’s 2-0 World Cup qualifier win against Albania.
On Thursday, Mount contributed an assist in the 5-0 win against San Marino.
And in November, Mount was again on the scoresheet in the 4-0 Nations League victory over Iceland.
That means he has matched Lampard’s stunning feat which the former player-turned-manager achieved eight years ago.
Lampard scored or assisted in SEVEN consecutive England games, with his incredible run ending in May 2013.

ROY-AL RUMBLES
Roy Keane is never one to back down in an argument.
The Irishman has gone from midfield hardman, to bearded boss, to TV executioner over the last few decades.
But during all this time, he has never allowed any foe to have the last laugh.
Keane, 49, is currently strongly linked with the vacant managerial post at Celtic.
And should he make a return to the dugout, Hoops fans must be ready for some explosive moments – just ask Alan Shearer or Jamie Redknapp.
So amid his links to Parkhead, let’s take a look at some of Keane’s most memorable bust-ups HERE.
JUAN’S PAIN
Juan Mata’s mother has passed away after a long battle with illness, according to reports.
Reports in Spain described Marta Garcia as a ‘very dear, good and loving person’.
Mata himself has not confirmed the news but close pals Bruno Fernandes, David De Gea and Ander Herrera took to Instagram on Monday afternoon to share pics with Mata showing their love and support.
Fernandes said: “Friend, a very strong hug for you and your family.”
Goalkeeper De Gea captioned his post with a love heart and ex-United midfielder Herrera wrote ‘siempre’ meaning ‘forever’.
Marta had two children – the Manchester United midfielder and his sister Paula.

CRIS CROSS
Cristiano Ronaldo let his emotions get the better of him when his winning ‘goal’ against Serbia did not stand.
The Portugal superstar, 36, appeared to have bagged an injury-time winner in the World Cup qualifier.
But neither the referee nor his assistant thought the ball had crossed the line before it was hooked clear.
And with that, Ronaldo threw his toys out of the pram – but it certainly was not the first time.
Click HERE for seven times the Juventus ace lost his cool on the pitch.
AL OR NOTHING
Barcelona legend Dani Alves, the most decorated player of all-time, has won a remarkable 41 trophies in his career.
However, he does not consider himself the best right-back to play the game.
When asked whether he believes he tops the tree in that position, he simply said: “After Cafu.”
Alves also named compatriot Neymar as the most skillful player in the world, adding: “Without a doubt.”

LEFT BACK LEANING
Luke Shaw is winning the race to be England’s first choice left-back this summer, Ashley Cole reckons.
Ex-England defender Cole thinks the Man Utd man has edged ahead of Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell.
He told ITV: “Shaw’s just pipping Chilwell.
“At the moment, Shaw’s in the lead, but going into the last few games of the Premier League, it’s a question of keeping consistency.”
ANYTHING HE KANT DO?
Chelsea posted a hilarious meme of World Cup winning midfielder N’Golo Kante helping clear the Suez Canal.
The Frenchman is renowned for his ridiculous work ethic and kilometres covered on the pitch.
And he is celebrating his 30th birthday today!

CURFUFFLE
Wales have sent three stars home from their World Cup qualifying campaign for reportedly breaking curfew.
Rabbi Matondo, Tyler Roberts and Hal Robson-Kanu have been axed from the squad to face the Czech Republic on Tuesday.
And all three have returned to their respective clubs immediately.
A statement read: “Three members of the Cymru senior national squad – Hal Robson-Kanu, Rabbi Matondo and Tyler Roberts – have been released from the Welsh camp today after breaching FAW protocol.
“The three players will be returning to their respective clubs this afternoon.
“The FAW will not be making any further comment.”
OH DANI BOY
Dani Alves has revealed he left Barcelona after a disagreement about who was running the club.
The supremely successful full-back left the Catalan giants to join up with Juventus in 2016.
Dani Alves (right) lost faith with BarcaCredit: Getty
And when asked recently what triggered the end of his eight-year spell with Barcelona, he was not shy in sharing it with people.
Speaking in an Instagram Q&A, he said: “I did not believe in the leaders who were in charge in that moment.
“Later it was proven that I was right. As I was the first person who said it, they called me crazy, but, as always…I am a good crazy!”
During his time at the Nou Camp, Alves won six LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies.
Aged 37, he now plays in Sao Paulo but is known for having the biggest trophy cabinet in football history with 41 trophies.
COMEDY GOALD
Switzerland and Lithuania’s World Cup qualifier was delayed by 15 minutes on Sunday because one of the goals turned out to be too big.
The two nations met at the Kybunpark in St Gallen but both teams had to wait once a major error came to the match officials’ attention.
Not your usual goalmouth dramaCredit: AFP
According to several media reports, one set of the goalposts was between five and 10cm too high on one side.
It was claimed that the imbalance came as a result of the left-hand post not being sunk correctly into the ground.
According to France24, ground staff worked feverishly to fix that embarrassing gaffe but their efforts weren’t enough.
And that is why they actually had to call in a police officer to help them remove the outsized posts.
They were eventually replaced by a spare set, which matched the necessary requirements to start the game and save the hosts from further embarrassment.
READY FOR FANS
Just one positive coronavirus test has been recorded by the Premier League over the past week as football continues to edge towards the return of fans.
Football fans will be allowed back in for the final day of the Premier League season on May 23.
And the continual fall in the number of coronavirus cases within top flight clubs can only bode well for the road out of lockdown and towards the return of spectators.
The Premier League confirmed that there was one new positive coronavirus test between March 22 and March 28.
Between March 22 and March 25 there were 1,045 players and club staff tested, with zero positives.
Then the one positive came when 1,165 more players and club staff were tested between March 26 and March 28.
NO DISRESPECT
Gareth Bale says he meant no disrespect’ to Tottenham as he moved to clarify his comments regarding returning to Real Madrid.
The Welsh star , 31, is on international duty and caused a stir before last week’s World Cup qualifying defeat to Belgium by revealing he still plans to go back to the Bernabeu.
Gareth Bale meant no disrespect to SpursCredit: Reuters
But Bale has sought to clarify his words comments today when he was asked whether he needed to play regularly next season in order to play the 2022 World Cup.
He said: “I think for me, first and foremost I still have this season, and I still have plenty of games to go for the Euros.
“Obviously, going into next season, legally my contract says I have to go back to Real Madrid, which is what I stated, which I don’t think is being disrespectful to anybody. That’s legally what I have to do.”
REAL DEAL
Arsenal and Real Madrid have agreed to delay talks regarding Martin Odegaard’s future until the summer.
Odegaard joined the Gunners on loan from Real during the January transfer window and has hit the ground running with a raft of impressive displays.
Manager Mikel Arteta appears keen on keeping the attacking midfielder on a permanent basis but Los Blancos have yet to decide whether he is part of their plans for next season.
According to Goal, the two clubs have decided to wait until the end of the season before holding talks over a possible permanent deal involving the 22-year-old.
Arsenal are reportedly worried that his parent club will demand a staggering fee of £50million once they return to the negotiation table.
The Gunners also fear stiff competition from London rivals Chelsea, who could hijack their star man in the summer.
DOUBLE WHAMMY
Manchester City players already believe Sergio Aguero and Fernandinho will leave this summer, claims a new report.
The two veterans have earned legendary status during their respective trophy-filled tenures at the Etihad but are out of contract in June.
Neither has so far agreed an extension to their deals and have been linked with transfer exits.
And The Athletic reports that City’s squad believe the influential duo will go.
Aguero, 32, has been at City since 2011 and the Argentine has gone on to become the club’s all-time top goalscorer.
The striker’s campaign has been wrecked by injury this term and he has been restricted to just three goals in 14 appearances.
Brazilian Fernandinho turns 36 in May and reportedly has a number of offers on the table from elsewhere, including Inter Milan and Atletico Paranaense if he opts to return home.
SURREND-ERLING
Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland has been criticised for “surrendering” on Norway after their heavy defeat to Turkey.
Haaland’s country were thrashed 3-0 in Malaga in Saturday’s World Cup qualifier following a brace by Ozan Tufan and a finish by Leicester star Caglar Soyuncu.
Erling Haaland couldn’t replicate his Dortmund form for NorwayCredit: Getty
Norway received some heavy criticism from the press, who dubbed the game “a disaster”, and the Dortmund star took a heavy beating following a poor display for his country.
Liverpool and Norway legend John Arne Riise felt like the star striker lacked the same passion he shows at the Westfalenstadion.
Riise told VG: “”He has received so much praise for showing his emotion when things aren’t going well with Dortmund, but we don’t see any of that back here.”
Retired Norwegian striker Bernt Hulsker was especially critical after Haaland’s “disappointing” performance.
He said: “He doesn’t play with the same confidence that we’re used to from him. In Dortmund he hits himself in the face if he misses such a pass.
“Here it was just surrender. I’m not saying he’s disinterested, but he exudes it. ”
FOX IN THE BOX
Leicester are reportedly ready to offer Newcastle flop Florian Thauvin £57,000-a-week to sign for them.
Brendan Rodgers’ side have allegedly made an offer to the Ligue 1 side in an attempt to beat rival teams to his signature this summer.
Florian Thauvin is on Leicester’s radarCredit: EPA
That’s according to Estadio Deportivo, who claim the proposal from the Premier League club was the ‘last known offer’ to be placed on the table for the ex-Magpies man.
Thauvin becomes a free agent in June when his Marseille contract expires.
He received an ultimatum from Marseille in January but still refused an extension and looks certain to depart at the end of the campaign.
A host of clubs are keen on the 28-year-old but according to the latest reports it is Leicester who were the last to make him a proposition and are believed to have offered him a four-year contract worth £57k-a-week.
GOOD LUKE
Luke Shaw dazzled on his return to the England fold in the 2-0 win against Albania.
The left-back had 100 touches, 100 per cent long pass accuracy, 92 per cent pass accuracy, won three out of three tackles and laid on one assist.
Luke Shaw starred for England against Albania
EURO STARS
Officials representing the biggest football teams in Europe are mulling over proposals for a Europa League-style tournament for the women’s game.
The idea for the competition and a women’s Club World Cup are among a raft of new suggestions being considered by the European Club Association.
Bigwigs from the body backed by Uefa and representing 232 clubs included the proposals in their ‘Be a Changemaker’ strategy launched today.
The plan aims to provide opportunities to boost revenue for the women’s game and support the creation of new women’s football clubs.
Claire Bloomfield, the ECA’s head of women’s football said: “We have a responsibility to explore all opportunities that can help grow the competition landscape, both on a European level with a second-tier competition and then on a much more global scale, with a possible Club World Cup.”
The Women’s Champions League is currently the only club contest in the sport involving sides from across Europe.
From next term, up to three English sides will be able to compete in the Champions League in a new structure to include a group stage and a round of 16 for the first time.
NUMBER WAN
Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka should be in the England squad ahead of Chelsea’s Reece James, according to Troy Deeney.
The Watford skipper is a big fan of the former Crystal Palace ace’s defensive abilities.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been overlooked by EnglandCredit: Getty
Deeney told talkSPORT: “It’s not personal, just an opinion; I don’t think Reece James goes over Wan-Bissaka. I don’t think he should have been in this squad over Wan-Bissaka.
“He doesn’t always start for Chelsea, that’s a main one. But I just think Wan-Bissaka is so good defensively.
“You can say what you want about him with the ball, but when it comes to the nitty-gritty you’re going to need someone who will clamp down on their winger, know his role, do his job, get the ball and give it to the better players – that’s what you need in those situations.
“I’d back him or Kyle Walker because he’s so fast. But I’d have Wan-Bissaka.”
GREEK HERO
Arsenal loanee Dinos Mavropanos made his international debut for Greece and fans were so impressed that they want him back at the Emirates.
Mavropanos joined the Gunners from Pas Giannina in 2018 and is now on his second loan spell at Stuttgart, following a short stint at Nuremberg.
The centre-back has put together a raft of impressive displays for the Bundesliga side, earning an international call-up by Greece manager John van’t Schip.
The 23-year-old finally made his international debut in Sunday’s international friendly against Honduras and played 90 minutes for his country, who won 2-1 thanks to a brace by Willem ace Vangelis Pavlidis.
Arsenal fans watched Mavropanos’ bow for Greece and were so impressed that they now see him as someone that can improve their error-prone defence next season.
One supporter took to Twitter and called on the north Londoners not to cash in on the talented defender: “This is someone we really shouldn’t sell.”
DAN THE CLUBMAN
Manchester United winger Dan James shut down claims he grew up a fan of arch rivals Liverpool.
The Welsh speedster signed for the Red Devils for £15million in summer 2019.
Dan James didn’t support Liverpool as a kid but did follow ChelseaCredit: Getty
And the 23-year-old recalled how a Sky Sports pundit claimed he was a Reds fan as a youngster.
But James actually grew up a Chelsea supporter and he said: “When I signed for United, I can’t remember who it was, one of the Sky Sports [pundits] said: ‘he supports Liverpool’.
“I was thinking I don’t support Liverpool, but I never wanted to come out and say I supported Chelsea as a youngster.
“When I started playing for Swansea it [Chelsea] was the team I followed, but you don’t end up supporting them really.”
BLUE MONDAY
It really is a Blue Monday for Chelsea fans after a number of their stars impressed on international duty.
But rather than feeling down in the dumps, the Shed End should be counting down the seconds until their heroes return to club action and look to seal a top four finish as well as Champions League glory.
Mason Mount, 22, capped his latest great performance with a goal to help England to victory over Albania in World Cup 2022 qualification.
And USA boss Gregg Berhalter was full of praise for Christian Pulisic after his ‘unbelievable’ man of the match display in their win at Northern Ireland.
The attacker, also 22, scored the second in the 2-1 victory, with his manager saying afterwards: “What I say about Christian is to forget about all the great stuff he does on the ball.
“He just competed today, and, when he’s in that type of mode, he’s just an unbelievable player.”
And 21-year-old Kai Havertz also helped Germany to victory over Romania and produced the assist for Serge Gnabry.
SHAW THING
Former Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has backed Luke Shaw to be Gareth Southgate’s England left-back at the delayed Euro 2020 tournament.
Cole – who bagged over 100 caps for the Three Lions – reckons Shaw is just ahead of Stamford Bridge ace Ben Chilwell.
Luke Shaw is fighting to be England’s No1 left-backCredit: EPA
Shaw started the 2-0 win over Albania on Sunday while Chilwell began the 5-0 win over San Marino in midweek.
On ITV, Cole said: “I think it’s a tight one between Shaw who I think is just pipping it at the minute.
“I think he is playing more consistently for Manchester United, whereas Chilwell – some days he plays [for Chelsea] and some days he doesn’t.
“I think at the moment Shaw is in the lead. But who knows?
“Going into the last games of the Premier League season, who can hold their nerve and keep that consistency up before the squad gets announced.”
MAKING THEIR MARC
Manchester United have joined Tottenham and Liverpool in the race for RB Leipzig captain Marcel Sabitzer.
The 27-year-old Austrian, who captains the high-flying Bundesliga side, is catching the eye of several Premier League teams with his performances this season.
And now Bild have reported that the Red Devils are keen to bring the midfielder to the club in the summer window.
Sabitzer has made it clear to Leipzig he would like to leave at the end of the season and he appears to be eyeing a move to England.
Since signing with the German outfit in 2014, he has played 219 times and scored 50 goals.
He has also spearheaded the club’s charge up the table as they are now challenging for the Bundesliga title in second place – four points behind Bayern Munich.
BREAKING – POLE AXED
Robert Lewandowski is set to miss Poland’s big World Cup qualifier against England on Wednesday.
The Bayern Munich star suffered a knee injury in the 3-0 win over Andorra and is now a major doubt.
Robert Lewandowski could miss Poland’s game with the Three LionsCredit: Getty
Lewandowski scored twice in the home win but then left the pitch with an injury with 27 minutes left.
The news is a massive blow for the Poles. Lewandowski’s brace took him to 47 goals in 42 games this season for club and country and 16 in his past ten.
But his absence is a boost for England who know that a home win would complete a hat-trick of qualifying wins and boost their chances of finishing top of the group.
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ARSENAL are plotting a £26m move for Nabil Fekir, should they fail in their approach to make Martin Odegaard’s loan permanent.Meanwhile Liverpool are still pursuing a transfer move for Dutch forward Donyell Malen, along with the two Milan clubs.
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SOU CLASSY
Tomas Soucek can flourish in the Champions League if West Ham qualify, according to the Czech Republic boss Jaroslav Silhavy.
Soucek has been a revelation for the Hammers as he has helped fire them into contention for a place in Europe.
West Ham and Czech Republic star Tomas SoucekCredit: AFP
Silhavy said: “Tomas plays very well in the Premier League. I am really not surprised because he is really hard working.
“He’s already played in the Champions League for Slavia Prague and was very good – but now he is even better.
“So I am convinced he can succeed in the Champions League with West Ham too.”
NOR GOALS
Liverpool scouted Erling Haaland in Norway’s game against Turkey but came away with another name on their shortlist.
The Reds were reportedly impressed by Turkey goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir after he prevented Haaland from scoring.
Ugurcan Cakir impressed Liverpool scoutsCredit: Getty
EURO WOES
It has been another game to forget for England U21s as they slumped to a 2-0 defeat to Portugal in the group stage of the European Championship.
Dany Mota’s goal and a Francisco Trincao penalty have left England with only an outside chance of reaching the knockout stages.
Aidy Boothroyd’s side have flopped in the European U21 ChampionshipCredit: Getty

SCOTLAND TAKE POINT
All over in Israel and it is back-to-back draws for Scotland after being held 1-1.
It could have been worse for Steve Clarke’s side after trailing through Dor Peretz.
Ryan Fraser earned a point for ScotlandCredit: SNS
But Ryan Fraser’s second-half strike secured a point in front of 5,000 Israel fans.
ALL SQUARE
Scotland have equalised in Israel after a superb finish from Ryan Fraser.
He picks up the ball and plants a finish in the far corner for a much-needed goal for Steve Clarke’s side.
LEFTOVER RICE
Declan Rice was left hanging by his England team-mates after their opening goal in Albania.
The West Ham star went to celebrate with the rest of the team but his high five was not reciprocated by England’s players.

Declan Rice was left hanging by his England team-matesCredit: Getty
SCOT OF BOTHER
Scotland have fallen behind in Israel just before half-time to leave Steve Clarke’s side in trouble.
Dor Peretz gives the hosts the lead with a long-range strike but it looked like goalkeeper David Marshall should have kept it out.
Dor Peretz fires home from distanceCredit: EPA
TIM’S UP
Chelsea are reportedly ready to lure Erling Haaland to Stamford Bridge by offering Timo Werner in part exchange.
The Blues are focused on trying to bring goal machine Haaland to the club and are willing to offer Borussia Dortmund Werner.
Timo Werner could be offered to Borussia DortmundCredit: Guardian News & Media / Free to use by all titles in perpetuity under NMC agreement
Werner has struggled to live up to his billing since making the £47.5million move to Stamford Bridge in the summer.
Despite scoring 28 league goals in his last season for Red Bull Leipzig, he has just five to his name this campaign.
And Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is willing to offload him if it results in landing potent finisher Haaland.
FANS AT FINAL?
Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City fans have received a boost over potentially attending the Champions League final.
The Premier League trio are all still involved in Europe’s most prestigious cup competition.
Istanbul’s Ataturk Olympic Stadium will host the finalCredit: AFP
And should they advance all the way through to the final, then there is a possibility that a small number of their supporters could be there to cheer them on.
Uefa hope to sell smart tickets to supporters on their mobile phones.
The capacity has yet to be decided for the final on May 29 at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium.
ALL OVER IN ALBANIA
The final whistle has gone and England have beaten Albania 2-0 in their second World Cup qualifier.
Gareth Southgate’s side earned the points after goals from Harry Kane and Mason Mount.
England cruised to a 2-0 win over AlbaniaCredit: PA
That’s two from two for England but they can expect a bigger test against Poland on Wednesday night.
MOUNTING PRESSURE
England are cruising in Albania with Gareth Southgate’s side doubling their lead.
Mason Mount has produced a deft finish to make it 2-0 and back-to-back World Cup qualifying wins looks secure.
Mason Mount doubles England’s lead in AlbaniaCredit: Reuters
RONBELIEVABLE
Cristiano Ronaldo has been slated for his angry antics during Portugal’s draw in Serbia.
The Juventus superstar slammed his captain’s armband down after his late goal was ruled out.
Cristiano Ronaldo throws a strop for PortugalCredit: AFP
Former Portugal international Fernando Meira said: “It’s clearly a goal, but Ronaldo can’t throw the armband on the ground like that.
“Cristiano’s reaction is natural, but it’s not acceptable from the national team captain.
“You can’t throw the armband on the ground and head into the dressing room while the game is still going on.
“It’s not acceptable behaviour for a player of his stature.”
KANE AND ABLE
England have the upper hand at half-time leading 1-0 in Albania.
Harry Kane’s first-half header has given Gareth Southgate’s side control of their World Cup qualifier.
Harry Kane gives England the lead in AlbaniaCredit: Reuters
ON GAARD
Paul Merson has urged Arsenal to drop Martin Odegaard until they can secure a permanent deal for the Real Madrid talent.
Odegaard has scored twice during his loan spell with the Gunners but Merson does not think he should be guaranteed a place in the side.
Martin Odegaard’s future is up in the airCredit: Reuters
Pundit Merson told the Daily Star: “Martin Odegaard looks a really good player and I hope Arsenal have a chance of signing him permanently.
“Because if they don’t have a chance of making his loan permanent next season, why is he playing?
“If they know he doesn’t want to stay, he shouldn’t be playing because he’s taking opportunities away from people like Emile Smith Rowe.
“So I hope Arsenal have done their homework and know what the situation is – I’d be disappointed if they haven’t already made a bid to be honest.”
ENGLAND TEAM
Less than half an hour until England get their World Cup qualifier underway in Albania.
Gareth Southgate has made six changes with Phil Foden and Harry Kane starting in attack.

RAM RAID
Tottenham have asked Juventus about a shock summer swoop for Arsenal icon Aaron Ramsey, according to reports in Italy.
The Serie A giants are set to offload the £400,000-a-week star, 30, as part of a cost-cutting squad overhaul this summer.
Liverpool and Everton have already been linked with the Gunners icon, with the Reds viewing Ramsey as the perfect replacement for out-of-contract Georginio Wijnaldum.
But now Tottenham have emerged as shock suitors for the Welshman.
Credit: Getty
STAY OR GO?
Harry Kane then. This story will run and run. It promises to be the transfer saga of the summer.
Will he leave Tottenham?
Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
KANE SHOULD GO
Ex-Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe has urged his former teammate Harry Kane to quit the club – if he wants to win trophies.
In an interview with TalkSport, Defoe said: “If you’d have asked me this question a few years ago, I’d have said he should have stayed there, what he’s done at the football club – he’s a legend.
“Since I’ve come away from that and gone to Rangers, I’ve seen that mentality and played for another big club, the importance of playing for that club and winning every game, that mentality, the standards and demands.
“You have to win and bring silverware, otherwise it’s not good enough. When you actually achieve that and the feeling you get from that, wow man. I wish I had that earlier on in my career.
“If Harry Kane wants that and wants to win trophies then it looks like he has to go.
“I don’t think it will be easy for him to leave and he might be looking at it and want to finish off being the highest goalscorer in the club’s history and see where that takes him.
“He can hopefully win a few trophies, but if he’s really craving medals then he really has to go.”
Credit: PA:Press Association
ROB LEE SLAMS ANTHONY MARTIAL
Former England international Rob Lee has hit out at Man Utd forward Anthony Martial for his ‘terrible’ attitude.
He told: Football Fancast: “He’s such a talented lad, he’s quick and he can finish well but some days, he just doesn’t seem interested.
“His attitude seems terrible. So yeah, if somebody would give me £50 million for him, I’d snap their hand off.”
Credit: AFP
LUK AT THAT RECORD
Romelu Lukaku scored yet again for his country last night, as Belgium drew 1-1 with the Czech Republic.
And the strike was his 59th for his country, as he boasts an astonishing record for the Belgian Red Devils.
With his side trailing 1-0 courtesy of Lukas Provod’s 50th minute effort, Lukaku found himself one on one with the last defender on the hour mark.
He twisted one way, then the other, before finishing past Tomas Vaclik in the Czech goal.
His effort saw the Inter Milan striker pull even further ahead at the top Belgium’s all-time leading goalscorer standings.
Current team-mate Eden Hazard is second on the list, 27 behind on 32 goals from 106 caps aged 30.
Credit: EPA
DYB-ING WAR
Manchester United and City are among SIX clubs set to be offered Paulo Dybala as part of a sensational summer swap deal, according to reports.
Juventus have long been keen to move on the Argentine international, 26, with the forward close to a move to Old Trafford in the summer of 2019.
Credit: Getty
ATLETICO SET LLORENTE PRICE
Atletico Madrid have reportedly set an asking price for Man Utd target Marcos Llorente.
The Spanish winger will set the Red Devils back a whopping £103million, according to Marca.
Credit: Getty
GEOR BLIMEY
Liverpool ace Georginio Wijnaldum was involved in a heated touchline row with Holland boss Frank De Boer.
The Reds midfielder was hauled off with just 11 minutes left of his country’s 2-0 win against Latvia in their World Cup qualifier on Saturday.
But he reacted badly when his number came up and was visibly upset with his national manager.
The two had a frosty exchange of words as he made his way off.
Find out what the Liverpool man said about it after the game by clicking on our story here.

LUKAK-BLUE
Chelsea have received a boost in their pursuit of Romelu Lukaku with Inter Milan reportedly ready to listen to offers.
But any San Siro departure for the former Blues striker is said to depend on whether Inter can land Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero on a free.
The Belgian has been a revelation at the San Siro but the Serie A giants are prepared to sell to help combat the financial impact of Covid-19, according to the Star.
Chelsea are said to be considering a move for the former Manchester United forward if they fail to land No 1 striker target Erling Haaland.
Lukaku was on the books at Chelsea between 2011 and 2014 and he is one of five hitmen that could make a summer switch to Stamford Bridge.
Credit: Reuters
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DALOT DEAL
Manchester United and AC Milan have opened talks over the permanent transfer of Diogo Dalot.
The 22-year-old is currently on-loan at the Serie A club from Old Trafford and has appeared 24 times this term.
Now The Metro claims Milan have tabled a £12million offer to try to sign the Portuguese defender permanently.
Dalot is happy in Italy and is believed he would be open to extending his stay there.
However, Milan – like most teams across Europe – are struggling to splash huge sums on players, resulting in their bid being short of the £19m United handed over to Porto in the summer of 2018.
He is on around £40,000-a-week, well within the wage structure Milan can afford with other team members on a lot more than him.
Credit: Getty

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ENGLAND are facing being eliminated in the group stage at the Under-21 Euro Championship.Aidy Boothroyd’s side lost 2-0 to Portugal tonight, making it two losses from two games in the tournament.
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THAT’S ALL FOR TONIGHT
Well, at least one England team picked up a win today.
It’ll take a miracle for England to make it through to the knockout stages of the Euros.
They’ll need to be Croatia by some margin and hope that Portugal beat Switzerland….
And on that note, goodnight!
 PORT OF CALL
AIDY BOOTHROYD wanted his players to take inspiration from the heroes of ‘66.
But they ended up looking like Roy Hodgson’s winless zeroes of the 2014 World Cup after this toothless defeat.
Thursday’s dismal opening-game defeat to Switzerland meant England had to win here to be the masters of their own destiny at this year’s Under-21 Euros.
Yet they did not even manage a shot on target as they were undone by Dany Mota’s clinical strike and Francisco Trincao’s penalty after the break.
It leaves the Young Lions needing a minor miracle to make it out of their group.
Read More: England 0 Portugal 2 Match Report
WASTED OPPORTUNITY
Aidy Boothroyd talked up selecting an attacking line-up…. which proceeded to register no shots on goal.
Henderson, AWB, Tomori, Konsa, Seesegnon, Mount, Maddison, Foden, Barnes, DCL & Tammy in his first squad Then Godfrey, Aarons, Sessegnon, McNeil, Eze, Smith Rowe, Jones, Madueke & CHO in his second squad Aidy Boothroyd has won 0 out of 5 under-21 Euros games with this talent.— Premier League Panel (@PremLeaguePanel) March 28, 2021

TIME’S UP?
Some record that.
No manager of the senior England team has gone two major tournaments without winning a game. Aidy Boothroyd could do it at Under-21 level.— Richard Jolly (@RichJolly) March 28, 2021

FT: ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
Portugal treated us to a wonderful second half performance producing two goals.
England, on the other hand, were absolutely awful.
Boothroyd’s side didn’t register a single shot on target despite having some unbelievable talent in the forward department.
Goncalves ran the show as expected, he’s not top-scorer in Portugal for no reason.
England’s knockout dreams have all-but faded.
It’ll take a miracle involving thumping Croatia and Portugal beating Switzerland to get through. Unlikely.
PEEEEEEEP!
THE FULL-TIME WHISTLE GOES IN THE SLOVENIAN CAPITAL!
PORTUGAL TAKE ALL THREE POINTS!
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
90+3. Time is up for England.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
90+1. YELLOW CARD!
Portugal catch England out again.
And Ramos cuts inside of his marker inside the penalty area before throwing himself to ground.
The referee isn’t having anything and the Portugal forward is booked for diving.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
90. Four additional minutes to be added on.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
89. Trincao leads the counter attack for Portugal before laying the ball wide to Ramos.
The forward cuts inside onto his right foot and gets a shot off, but his effort goes wide of the far post.
Despite the two-goal advantage, Portugal are looking for a third.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
87. SUBSTITUTION!
Man of the match Goncalves goes off to a standing ovation from his bench.
Soares is on in his place.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
84. Goncalves will undoubtably pick up man of the match and rightly so.
There’s a reason why he’s the top scorer in Portugal’s top division for Sporting.
Big clubs are already taking a look at the 22-year-old.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
82. SUBSTITUTION!
Steven Sessegnon makes way for Brewster, who on a personal level is just as desperate as England for a goal.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
81. England look incredibly frustrated and Boothroyd is looking to make another change.
Brewster will be coming on shortly.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
79. Gallagher and McNeil combine well down the left-hand side.
The Burnley winger gets to the byline and tries to deliver a cross towards the near post.
But his effort is blocked behind for a corner.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
76. McNeil whips a corner into the six yard box and Godfrey rises highest to meet it.
The referee blows up shortly after handing Portugal a free-kick.
The referee has penalised Godfrey for using his opponent essentially as a climbing frame.
ENGLAND U21 0-2 PORTUGAL U21
74. Trincao steps up and sends Ramsdale the wrong way to score Portugal’s second!
Portugal are running away with the points and England’s tournament is a good as done.
GOOOOOAAAALLL!!!
TRINCAO SCORES FROM THE SPOT!!!
PORTUGAL DOUBLE THEIR LEAD!!!
ENGLAND U21 0-1 PORTUGAL U21
73. PENALTY!
Guehi tries to step in on Ramos from a throw-in and ends up conceding a sloppy penalty.
Trincao to take.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 PORTUGAL U21
73. SUBSTITUTION!
Goal-scorer Mota makes way for Ramos.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 PORTUGAL U21
71. DOUBLE SUBSTITUTION!
Jones and Gallagher are coming on for England and they’re replacing Madueke and Skipp.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 PORTUGAL U21
69. Just over 20 minutes left in the game and England are yet to register a single shot on target.
Changes need to be made.
Portugal are cruising towards the knockout stagesCredit: Getty Images

ENGLAND U21 0-1 PORTUGAL U21
67. YELLOW CARD!
Godfrey is booked.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 PORTUGAL U21
66. Boothroyd simply isn’t getting a tune out of this very talented England squad.
You can’t have this squad at your disposal and fail to reach the knockout stages of a tournament.
ENGLAND U21 0-1 PORTUGAL U21
64. Goncalves breaks Portugal forward and they have England outnumbered.
The midfielder plays a wonderfully weighted pass to Mota to his left.
And the forward sends a right footed shot across Ramsdale, off the post and in!
Portugal, as it stands, will be in the knockout stages of the tournament.
England, on the other hand, will be going home if they don’t beat Croatia by a significant margin and Portugal don’t beat Switzerland.
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ENGLAND continued their impeccable World Cup 2022 qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win in Albania.And up next for the Three Lions is Robert Lewandowski’s Poland on Wednesday night.
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Follow ALL of the latest reaction below…
GOODNIGHT
That’s all from Tirana where England have made it two wins from their opening two games as they set out on the road to Qatar 2022.
While Albania this afternoon were a tougher test than San Marino so too will be Poland on Wednesday evening.
Nevertheless, the Three Lions were professional in their performance here as goals from Harry Kane – his first for his country in 500 days – and Mason Mount ensured a 2-0 success.
We’re signing off now for the evening, but if you require further reading then here’s Dave Kidd’s match report of England’s victory for you to enjoy.
Thanks for joining us and goodbye.
A SOCIAL GROUP
Several of the England players have taken to Twitter to express their delight at bagging a second win in four days.

SOUTHGATE REACTION
England head coach Gareth Southgate praised his players for the way they adjusted to the conditions and some tactical tweaks to prevail, but warned against some sloppiness in the play late on.
What pleased me was that it was a difficult pitch to move the ball on so we adapted well to that. After about 25 minutes, we changed the shape of the midfield a little and looked a lot more dangerous. We were comfortable for most of the second half, but I didn’t like the way we managed the game in the last 15 minutes. I’m pleased with the win but there are certainly areas we can tighten up in.Gareth SouthgateITV

LIONS ROARING
England are off to the perfect start in Group I.
However, after games with San Marino and Albania in the past four days, a visit from Poland and Robert Lewandowski on Wednesday night will be an altogether different proposition.
Group courtesy of UEFA.COM
NOTHING GETS PAST NICK
He may have had little to do this evening, but Nick Pope has ensured his name is etched in the history books after becoming the first England goalkeeper to clock up clean sheets in each of his first six games for his country.
6 – Nick Pope has kept a clean sheet in all six of his appearances for England; the first time a goalkeeper hasn’t conceded in any of his first six games for The Three Lions. Tranquil. pic.twitter.com/Xh16FzerFo— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 28, 2021

NICE AND SPICY RICE
Declan Rice again excelled in that defensive midfield role in Albania, and, with Jordan Henderson almost certainly out of the summer’s European Championships, the West Ham man looks the favourite to fill such an important role.
Declan Rice made more interceptions (5) and more clearances (3) than any other England player against Albania. He also completed 97% of his passes. pic.twitter.com/TfhPYhFbZ0— Squawka Football (@Squawka) March 28, 2021

CAPTAIN’S LOG
Harry Kane was back among the goals this evening, and the England captain has spoken at full time about how a tweak in tactics in Tirana helped them to victory.
I thought it was a really good performance. It’s never easy coming away from home against a tough side. Maybe we were a little slow to start so we changed our formation halfway through the first half and that definitely helped as we got more runners in the box, and had more attacking play. Getting the goal before half-time was great, and then we controlled the second half well. Harry KaneITV

MASON MOUNTING A CHALLENGE
Mason Mount impressed again, capping his performance with a lovely second goal.
The Chelsea midfielder has had his detractors, but – on this form – can he be left out of either his club or national side?
3 – Mason Mount is the first Chelsea player to score or assist in three consecutive England appearances since Frank Lampard, who did so in seven in a row in a run ending in May 2013. Heir. pic.twitter.com/4EpRP5DR1d— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 28, 2021

HENDERSON’S RELISH
The news regarding Jordan Henderson’s injury has not been positive this week, but the setback hasn’t stopped the absent England midfielder from cheering on his teammates in the national side.

FULL TIME STATS
A routine win for England, and a record sixth successive clean sheet for Nick Pope at the start of his international career – although the Burnley goalkeeper didn’t face a single shot on target.
Statistics from UEFA.Com
FT: ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
England get the job done in Tirana with a straightforward 2-0 win. Goals from each half from Harry Kane and Mason Mount ensure Gareth Southgate’s side are off to a perfect start in Group with two wins from two, seven goals scored and none conceded.
PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE FINAL WHISTLE GOES!
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
90+3. Pope nearly blows his chance of that record by spooning a clearance straight to Uzuni.
The ball bounces of the Albania forward, and falls for Manaj. As the substitute prepares to set himself for the strike, however, the flag goes up for offside.
A let off for the England goalkeeper.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
90. Four minutes of stoppage time are signalled.
England are four minutes away from making it two wins from two in World Cup qualifying.
Nick Pope is four minutes away from becoming the first England goalkeeper to keep clean sheets in each of his first six international appearances.

ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
89. Gjasula picks up a booking for a foul on Mount.
We shouldn’t be too surprised though, Gjasula has the record for the most yellow cards in a Bundesliga season.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
88. Albania make one more change as Yylber Ramadani is brought on for Qazam Laci.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
85. Walker bodychecks Laci as an aerial pass is sent in the midfielder’s direction.
The England right-back isn’t happy with the referee’s decision to penalise him, but he’ll have to bare careful having already been cautioned.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
83. The pitch is really starting to cut up now, although I don’t know if that’s the reason for two different Albania players inexplicably failing to keep the ball in play within a 30 second period.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
81. England make their second change. Phil Foden has impressed again, but now his night is over. Jesse Lingard is the man on in his place.

ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
78. Hysaj goes into the book for cynically pulling back Sterling as the forward looked to utilise his pace in order to take advantage of a stretched Albania defence.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
76. Ooof! A rare Albania attack in this second half ends with Pope and Maguire clattering into each other in their attempts to clear a cross, a job latterly done by Shaw as his two teammates pick themselves up off the turf.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
75. Into the final quarter of an hour, and England are easing their way to a perfect start from their opening two World Cup qualifying games.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
73. Kane picks up an unwarranted yellow card which will almost certainly come back to bite when he’s suspended later in the group.
The striker is penalised for sliding in on Djimsiti and Ismakili in his attempt to turn a Sterling cross over the line, following the Manchester City forward’s original fluff of a shot off Ward-Prowse’s cross.

ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
71. Albania make another change of their own as Keidi Bare is replaced by Ledian Memushaj.
ALBANIA 0-2 ENGLAND
70. Southgate does indeeed make a change, introducing James Ward-Prowse for Kalvin Phillips.
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