The FA

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      England set to appoint Lee Carsley as manager as FA look to follow Gareth Southgate path, claims ex-Three Lions boss

      by

      THREE LIONS legend Stuart Pearce believes the FA will install Lee Carsley as England’s interim manager.And he has challenged him to prove he can successfully follow Gareth Southgate’s pathway to become England’s permanent boss.Lee Carsley has been backed to become England’s next bossCredit: GettyTalk about Gareth Southgate’s successor has been rampantCredit: GettyPearce, himself a former England Under-21 boss, believes Carsley is perfectly placed to be handed the role on a caretaker basis until Christmas.If the 50-year-old succeeds in making a smooth transition during England’s Nations League campaign, Pearce believes he should be given the job ahead of Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, Jurgen Klopp and even Pep Guardiola.Asked whether he thought the FA should appoint an interim boss to replace Southgate, Pearce told talkSPORT: “This is where I’m thinking it’s going.”They need a manager for September. Who is the ideal man?READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Lee Carsley won the Under-21 tournament – and I know how difficult it is to do that – so his CV is looking good.”He knows the FA, he knows the running of it, he’s been there long enough.”He will be ideally suited to put into place and say take the team until Christmas. ‘You’re doing the Nations League games,’ run that until Christmas.”The FA have got a chance then to have a look at him in post.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”How is he viewed by the public? How is he viewed by the players?”All of those types of things and make a decision from there.’Get him in’ – England fans reveal who they would like to replace Gareth Southgate after Euro defeat”You might want to go elsewhere at that stage. But if it works and you’ve got cover at Under-21 level, then step him up at this stage.”Because there was no succession plan when Gareth took over.”He was working with the 21s but I don’t think there was a real mentality within the FA that said: ‘Right, you’re going to take over from Roy.'”He just fell into place and look at how successful that’s been.”SunSport exclusively revealed Carsley was in pole position to succeed Southgate on an interim basis earlier this month.Asked about the other contenders, Pearce said: “This is how I see it panning out.Lee Carsley followed same path as De La Fuente and learned from Pep – why can’t he be England boss?By Tom BarclayBE honest. How many of you had heard of Luis de la Fuente before his glorious Euros?Don’t feel bad. Even Declan Rice admitted ahead of Sunday’s heartbreaking final that he was unaware of the smooth-headed 63-year-old a month or so ago.We all certainly know who De La Fuente is now after he masterminded La Roja’s perfect Euros campaign which ended with a deserved victory over England.That showpiece triumph in Berlin made it seven wins out of seven in the competition for his scintillating side.It rendered De La Fuente the first boss ever to win the Under-19 Euros, Under-21 Euros, the Nations League and the European Championship.And in so doing, it strengthened the case for another bold, bald tactician to take over as England boss now Gareth Southgate has stepped down.Lee Carsley has trodden a similar path as De La Fuente, successfully coaching his way up his national team’s youth ranks, culminating in last summer’s Under-21 Euro success.No doubt there would be questions about his suitability given his experience of coaching senior players is limited to brief caretaker spells at Coventry, Brentford and Birmingham.For sure, he would not bring the same star quality as a Frank Lampard. Most fans will just about remember Carsley as that ratter of a midfielder who played alongside Thomas Gravesen for Everton in the noughties.While there is also the thorny issue, at least for some, of the Brummie’s 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland, who ironically would be his first opponents if appointed.But park all that for a second, focus on his qualities and the argument to give him the big job can be a convincing one. First off, his team does not play like he used to. ‘Carsball’ is far sexier and heavily influenced by its creator watching Pep Guardiola’s free-flowing Barcelona train a decade ago, alongside 60 members of the public.That study trip to Catalonia changed his philosophy to be far more front-footed and it paved the way to some fabulous fare during last summer’s triumph in Georgia.Four of the five tournament goals boasting the most passes in the build-up belonged to his Young Lions. Fans bemoaning Southgate’s pragmatic style would be salivating if they watched back the build-up to Emile Smith Rowe’s strike against Israel in the group stage, or Cole Palmer’s in the semi against the same opposition.Carsley is a tactical innovator too.He was robbed of a centre-forward pretty much on the eve of the tournament last summer, thanks to Rhian Brewster’s injury and Flo Balogun switching to the USA.His response was to play Gordon through the middle. The Newcastle starlet won player of the tournament.Manchester United supporters likely remember Angel Gomes as a lightweight winger but Carsley played him as a shield in front of the back four to great effect.Gordon used the Under-21 Euros experience as his launchpad to make the senior squad this summer. But talking about Carsley 12 months ago, the Toon forward said: “He is the best man-manager I’ve had so far. “I feel like I can speak to him about anything on and off the pitch.“On the pitch, the way we’re playing football is a credit to him because we play the way he tells us to. “This might be the best footballing team I’ve played in, in terms of how we play and the combination play we play around the box, it’s really at an elite level. That’s down to Lee.”Those powers of motivation could be crucial to unleashing Jude Bellingham, who, like Solihull-born Carsley, is from the outskirts of Birmingham, specifically Stourbridge.Like Southgate, Carsley believes in the merits of giving them a comfortable environment to work in, particularly during tournaments.The 50-year-old is relatively quiet on the touchline, often seen on his haunches making notes in his dugout with his assistant Ashley Cole the more vocal.England’s greatest left-back Cole has learned a lot from Carsley despite having the far superior playing career. In the aftermath of the Under-21s success, which was won without conceding a goal, Cole reflected on the different attitudes players have to international duty now and in his day.The ex-Arsenal and Chelsea defender, 43, said: “We didn’t always want to go and the club manager would pull you out.“But I feel they truly, truly love coming here now. I think that is testament to what Lee has done here. He is kind, loving, someone that thinks about the players more than himself.”Other names will be in the frame but the FA will have seen how De La Fuente has taken Spain to new heights, despite his relative obscurity to the wider footballing world.The promotion of Carsley, who spent these Euros scouting England’s opponents, would take guts and faith in the much-feted ‘pathway’.He would have to brace himself for unprecedented levels of scrutiny – but he is ambitious.With his 50th birthday fast approaching, Carsley said in June last year: “Energy-wise, and I’m not saying the clock’s ticking, but if I don’t have a go at it then the boat is going to pass.”Few Spaniards were bowled over when De La Fuente was appointed in 2022 but he put them on course to sensational success.Who is to say putting Carsley at the helm could not have a similar effect?”Eddie Howe will be somewhere right up at the top of the list.”It depends on what Newcastle wants financially for him whether that deal happens or not. Or how much Eddie turns round and says: ‘I want out of the club.'”Graham Potter is out of work at the moment, so he’s ideal to step straight into the work, no compensation needs paying blah, blah, blah. That fits.”Jurgen Klopp has been mentioned, knows English football, probably the style of football he plays would suit an English game as well.”I think there’s a valid candidate there, if he wants to come back in.”People talk about Pep (Guardiola). I think Pep’s got one more year at Manchester City.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I think he’ll leave next summer.”But an interim manager is where I think it’s going and Lee Carsley is the ideal man.”Southgate’s England legacy should be celebrated, not torn downBy Tom BarclayGareth Southgate claimed that only winning Sunday’s final would earn England the respect of the footballing world.Spain proved a last-gasp comeback too far in Berlin, but defeat did not change the fact that Southgate’s eight-year transformation put respect back into the world of England football.Critics will pick apart his cautious tactics, his selection choices and his record in the most high-pressurised games – with some legitimacy.Yet what is quickly forgotten is the laughing stock our national side had become before he took over in 2016.A shambolic Euros exit to Iceland that summer had been followed up by Sam Allardyce quitting just one game into his tenure thanks to his pint of wine with undercover reporters.Then came Southgate, with his decency, his humility, his understated eloquence and his vision for a better, different future.He had analysed why England had so often failed in the past, from lack of preparation at penalty shoot-outs to players being bored out of their minds during major tournaments.Southgate took those findings and implemented a culture where players wanted to play for their country again – and it led to back-to-back finals for the first time in our history.Instead of going to war with the media, he opened his doors to them and discovered, shock, horror, that it was met, generally, with support. It did not stop him from being criticised when required – we are no cheerleaders, here – but the vitriol of yesteryear – or today on social media – was largely gone.No manager is perfect and neither was Southgate. We cannot pretend his teams played like those of Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp.But in the fullness of time, his feats will likely be revered because the results speak for themselves.Hopefully his successor can go one step further and bring football home. To do that, they must show respect to what Southgate has created and build on it, rather than rip it down.To read more from Tom Barclay click HERE. More

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      FA post job advert for England manager with seven requirements for successful candidate to succeed Gareth Southgate

      by

      THE FA have posted a job advert as they search for the perfect candidate to replace Gareth Southgate as England manager.Euro 2024 ended in heartbreak once again for the Three Lions as they lost the final to Spain 2-1.The FA have posted a job advert as they look for a new England managerCredit: FAGareth Southgate came within touching distance of winning the EurosCredit: GettyGraham Potter is believed to be a candidateCredit: PAEddie Howe has also been tipped as the potential new bossCredit: GettySouthgate announced his resignation soon after the defeat, ending his eight-year spell in charge.The former boss said it was the “honour of his life” to manage England “but it’s time for change”.Several managers have already been linked with the job such as Newcastle’s Eddie Howe, ex-Chelsea gaffer Graham Potter and the current Under-21s boss Lee Carsley.Ambitious moves for the likes of Mauricio Pochettino, Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp and Ange Postecoglou have been also been suggested.READ MORE ON ENGLANDMeanwhile, the FA are encouraging those interested to apply and have posted a job advert on their website.It wastes no time in making it clear the next manager will be tasked with ending the country’s 58-year wait for glory.Their primary role will be to “lead and develop the England senior men’s team to win a major tournament”.The FA demand that candidates have a Uefa pro coaching license and significant experience of English football.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFA’s seven requirements to succeed SouthgateWill hold a Uefa Pro License.Will have significant experience of English football, with a strong track record delivering results in the Premier League and/or leading international competitions.Will be an exceptional leader who understands and will enjoy the international football environment.Will be experienced in successfully identifying, managing and developing English qualified players.Will be highly resilient and comfortable in a very high-profile role with intense public scrutiny.Will have a track record of creating a high performing, positive team culture and environment.Will have strong personal values and integrity and understand and embrace the role that the England Men’s Senior Team Head Coach has inspiring the nation.They also say they want an “exceptional leader” with “strong personal values and integrity”, who is “highly resilient” to deal with the “intense public scrutiny”.Southgate has helped create a positive environment around the England team and someone with a “track record of creating a high performing and positive team culture” is desired.’Get him in’ – England fans reveal who they would like to replace Gareth Southgate after Euro defeatThe FA’s values of “aim high, achieve together and embrace difference” are stated at the bottom of the advert.Candidates have until August 2 to register their interest.England are next in action on September 7 against the Republic of Ireland in a Nations League game.Southgate deserved to win a trophy with England… he made us all proud of our team again, writes Shaun CustisGARETH SOUTHGATE deserved to win a trophy as England manager, write Shaun Custis.Unfortunately, you don’t always get what you deserve in life.No man could have worked harder to give the country the silverware it craved and no man cared more about our national team.As a player he went through agonies after missing that fateful penalty against Germany at Euro 96 — and victory as a manager in the Euro 2024 final against Spain on Sunday would have been a wonderful redemption.Southgate himself said he didn’t believe in fairytales — and there was to be no happy ending as ultimately England came up short again when it mattered.But his legacy should be one of great achievement, not of failure.This is an England boss who transformed our feelings towards the Three Lions.Hardened fans, who claimed they only cared about their club, fell back in love with England during Gareth’s eight years in charge.As The Sun’s chief football writer, I followed England through the Sven Göran Eriksson era, on to Steve McClaren, then Fabio Capello and Roy Hodgson.None of them could hold a candle to Southgate.Southgate took it on reluctantly and, when the FA then wanted to make his position permanent, he made it clear he had to have free rein to do the job on his terms.This was to be a new England with no club cliques, no wars with the media and an openness and honesty from coaches and players.He never believed it was the impossible job as many claimed before him.Yes, the Euros was a let-down and England were probably lucky to make the final.But Southgate, by some distance, turned his England team into the most successful since Sir Alf Ramsey’s World Cup winners of 1966.He gave us plenty of entertainment and fun along the way and a reason to feel proud.We were even starting to crack it at penalty shoot-outs.Most importantly, Southgate was a thoroughly decent human being throughout it all, treating everyone with respect — whether you were a player, a fan or part of the media.Read Sun Head of Sport Shaun Custis’ full opinion on Gareth Southgate’s England exit… More

    • 175 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Como release statement insisting ‘Jackie Chan’ comment made to Hwang Hee-chan was NOT racist

      by

      WOLVES have dismissed a half-baked statement from Como claiming a racist remark directed at Hwang Hee-chan during a pre-season friendly had been: “blown out of proportion”.And vowed to carry out their threat to report the flashpoint incident to UEFA and the Italian FA – despite UEFA claiming it cannot investigate the alleged abuse.Wolves star Hwang Hee-chan was allegedly racially abused in a friendly match against Como on MondayCredit: GettyGary O’Neil said Hwang would have their full supportCredit: GettyThe controversy erupted during a closed-doors friendly in Marbella which Wolves won 1-0.The clash was marred by an incident after 68 minutes when Hwang alleged he had been racially abused by an opponent.His furious team-mate Daniel Podence was so incensed he lashed out at a Como defender and was red-carded by the referee.Incredibly, Como issued a statement later defending the unnamed defender at the centre of the racist row.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLComo’s statement said: “We spoke to the defender in question to understand what was said.”He has told us the comment he made to his co defender, was ‘ignore him, he thinks he’s Jackie Chan’.”Having spoken to our player at length, we are confident this was in reference to the player’s name, and to the constant references of ‘Channy’ made by his own team-mates on the pitch.”As far as our club is concerned our player did not say anything in a derogatory manner.Most read in Football”We are disappointed that the reaction of certain Wolves players has seen this incident blown out of proportion.”Privately, Wolves were staggered by Como’s statement and found it embarrassing.”We are working with the FA to submit a formal complaint which will go to UEFA and the Italian FA,” said a club spokesman.”We are continuing through the official channels.”Wolves feel that Como’s statement is an admission the offence took place.”It seems clear that we’ve heard him referred to as Jackie Chan,” said the spokesman. “We don’t know what the context was. But that’s what he (Hwang) considers to be racist because Jackie Chan is obviously a Chinese actor.”So he (the offending player) has basically insinuated that all Asian people look the same.”That’s Hee-chan’s position.”UEFA, Europe’s governing body, insists it cannot look into the incident because it did not take place during a competitive UEFA match.A UEFA spokesman said: “The fight to eliminate racism, discrimination and intolerance from football is a major priority for our organisation.”Discriminatory behaviour is not tolerated in UEFA’s competitions. Any such behaviour would fall under Article 14 of the UEFA disciplinary regulations.”While UEFA will continue its fight to eliminate all forms of discrimination in football, the organisation’s disciplinary bodies can only take action for incidents that take place in UEFA competitions.”Despite that Wolves will push on with their fight and there will be a meeting between FA officials and the Wolves players who were involved later this week.Only then will the FA take the matter to the relevant bodies.Wolves have confirmed they will not be taking disciplinary action or fining Podence for his red card, for violent conduct.”He was obviously protecting his teammate,” we were told.”Gary (O’Neil) said yesterday that Daniel had apologised for reacting the way he did.READ MORE SUN STORIES”That’s the end of it as far as we are concerned.”Asked how Hwang Hee-chan was, the spokesman replied: “He’s good but he wants to make sure it’s taken further. He’s happy the club is supporting him in that.” More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Footage resurfaces of what Eddie Howe said about England job as he is tipped to succeed Gareth Southgate

      by

      EDDIE HOWE previously stated he would never turn down the chance to manage England.The Newcastle boss is one candidate the FA are considering for the job after Gareth Southgate stepped down.Eddie Howe gave an interesting response when linked to the England job in 2016Gareth Southgate has stepped down as England managerCredit: RexThe FA have begun their process to appoint Southgate’s successor, who leaves his post having guided the Three Lions to two Euros finals.Howe is liked by the FA but some have questioned whether he would want to leave Newcastle given his success in the north east.He was linked to the job in 2016 when still in charge of Bournemouth and gave a telling answer when asked if he would take the job.Howe said: “The England job is the ultimate, I would never say no.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFormer Chelsea boss Graham Potter is the bookies’ favourite to take over with odds of 11/10.Howe and Under-21 boss Lee Carsley are not far behind however with the FA likely to appoint an Englishman.But if they opt for a non-Englishman they could look at former Tottenham and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino.Thomas Tuchel has also thrown his name into the ring having first shown interest in the job after the 2022 World Cup.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSouthgate’s England recordHere is a look at Gareth Southgate’s record as England manager.Overall recordGames: 102Wins: 61Draws: 24Losses: 17Goals scored: 213Goals conceded: 72Southgate’s highs and lows as England bossGARETH Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.But what were the best – and worst matches – from the popular gaffer’s eight-year reign before that devastating Sunday night in Berlin? Here we take a look.THE HIGHS:Colombia 1-1 England (3-4 on pens,) 2018 World CupThis was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.Spain 2-3 England, 2018 Nations LeagueFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.England 2-1 Denmark, Euro 2020 semi-finalSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.England 3-0 Sengal, 2022 World Cup last 16England had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Italy 1-2 England, Euro qualifiers, 2023On a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.England 2-1 Holland, Euro 2024 sem-finalThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.AND THE LOWS….Croatia 2-1 England, World Cup semi-final, 2018Having led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Italy 1-1 England (3-2 pens) Euro 2020 finalWill probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.England 0-4 Hungary, Nations League 2023A year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.England 1-2 France, World Cup 2022 quarter-finalsAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.Instead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out.More outlandish reports have linked Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola with the job while Frank Lampard has also been suggested as a Southgate successor.Howe could prove to be a more expensive option for the FA as they would have to agree a hefty compensation package with Newcastle to land the 46-year-old.Southgate’s gone – now it’s time to go foreignBy Dave KiddThere is a natural preference to appoint an English successor.And in an ideal world, the England manager should always be English. But this is not an ideal scenario.So the FA must be ambitious in sounding out the best man for the job, regardless of nationality.Because England need a manager who would gain instant respect with players, who would be tactically bold enough to take on Spain and a strong enough character to deal with Jude Bellingham’s Real Madrid Galactico status, which threatens to cause future issues within the England squad. Yes, when the FA have gone foreign in the past, it hasn’t worked out well.Yet the problem with Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello was that neither had any previous involvement in English football.They lacked knowledge and understanding of the football culture — indeed, Capello barely spoke the language.Now there is a wealth of overseas managerial talent with significant Premier League experience, including Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino, Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel.Read more from Dave Kidd on who England should turn to.England fans thank Southgate as England boss rumoured to step down following Euros defeat More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      FA confirm plans for next England manager already underway and could hire INTERIM chief after Gareth Southgate quits

      by

      THE process for appointing Gareth Southgate’s successor as England manager has started, the FA have confirmed.Southgate has stepped down as the Three Lions boss following the defeat in the Euro 2024 final to Spain.Gareth Southgate has stepped down as England managerCredit: GettyFA chief exec Mark Bullingham has confirmed the process of hiring a replacement is underwayCredit: GettySouthgate, 53, confirmed his exit in an emotional 331-word statement after eight years in the role.During his time in charge, he led the team to two Euro finals and a World Cup semi-final and quarter-final.The FA’s chief executive, Mark Bullingham, has confirmed that the process of hiring a new manager has started.He has also suggested that an INTERIM MANAGER could be hired in the meantime.READ MORE ON ENGLANDHe said: “The process for appointing Gareth’s successor is now under way and we aim to have our new manager confirmed as soon as possible.”Our UEFA Nations League campaign starts in September, and we have an interim solution in place if it is needed.”We know there will be inevitable speculation, but we won’t be commenting further on our process until we appoint.”Multiple names have already been linked with the hot seat, such as Eddie Howe, Graham Potter and Thomas Tuchel.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSouthgate’s emotional statetementHere is Gareth Southgate’s statement on leaving the England job in full.He said: “As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all.”But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager.”I joined the FA in 2011, determined to improve English football. In that time, including eight years as England men’s manager, I have been supported by some brilliant people who have my heartfelt thanks.”I could not have had anyone better alongside me than Steve Holland. He is one of the most talented coaches of his generation, and has been immense.”I have had the privilege of leading a large group of players in 102 games. Every one of them has been proud to wear the three lions on their shirts, and they have been a credit to their country in so many ways.”The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of. I am so proud of them, and I hope we get behind the players and the team at St. George’s Park and the FA who strive every day to improve English football, and understand the power football has to drive positive change.”My special thanks go to the backroom staff who have provided the players and me with unstinting support over the last eight years. Their hard work and commitment inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them – the brilliant ‘team behind the team’.”We have the best fans in the world, and their support has meant the world to me. I’m an England fan and I always will be.”I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and to connect and inspire the nation as we know they can.”Thank you, England – for everything.”Other candidates include the likes of Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp and Frank Lampard.SunSport exclusively revealed on Monday that Tuchel would be interested in taking over the Three Lions.Footage resurfaces of what Eddie Howe said about England job as he is tipped to succeed Gareth SouthgateSouthgate’s gone – now it’s time to go foreignBy Dave KiddThere is a natural preference to appoint an English successor.And in an ideal world, the England manager should always be English. But this is not an ideal scenario.So the FA must be ambitious in sounding out the best man for the job, regardless of nationality.Because England need a manager who would gain instant respect with players, who would be tactically bold enough to take on Spain and a strong enough character to deal with Jude Bellingham’s Real Madrid Galactico status, which threatens to cause future issues within the England squad. Yes, when the FA have gone foreign in the past, it hasn’t worked out well.Yet the problem with Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello was that neither had any previous involvement in English football.They lacked knowledge and understanding of the football culture — indeed, Capello barely spoke the language.Now there is a wealth of overseas managerial talent with significant Premier League experience, including Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino, Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel.Read more from Dave Kidd on who England should turn to.Tuchel most recently managed Bayern Munich from March 2023 until the end of this season.He was dismissed in February but given a stay of execution until this summer.England’s under-21 boss Lee Carsley is also an option as he would have followed a similar path to Southgate.Mauricio Pochettino is also available following his exit from Chelsea at the end of the last Premier League season.Southgate however has been tipped for a shock career change and become a Lord.This means that he can then become the new sport and culture secretary.Southgate’s highs and lows as England bossGARETH Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.But what were the best – and worst matches – from the popular gaffer’s eight-year reign before that devastating Sunday night in Berlin? Here we take a look.THE HIGHS:Colombia 1-1 England (3-4 on pens,) 2018 World CupThis was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.Spain 2-3 England, 2018 Nations LeagueFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.England 2-1 Denmark, Euro 2020 semi-finalSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.England 3-0 Sengal, 2022 World Cup last 16England had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Italy 1-2 England, Euro qualifiers, 2023On a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.England 2-1 Holland, Euro 2024 sem-finalThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.AND THE LOWS….Croatia 2-1 England, World Cup semi-final, 2018Having led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Italy 1-1 England (3-2 pens) Euro 2020 finalWill probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.England 0-4 Hungary, Nations League 2023A year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.England 1-2 France, World Cup 2022 quarter-finalsAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.Instead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out. More

    • 250 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      England’s next boss should be an Englishman but there’s no better than Gareth Southgate – it’s time to go foreign

      by

      THE Gareth Southgate era is almost certainly over.And unless the FA are seriously bold in their search for his successor, then these last eight years will soon be viewed as a golden age for the England team, lost forever.Gareth Southgate’s future as England boss is under questionCredit: GettyMauricio Pochettino and Pep Guardiola would be ideal England managesCredit: RexJurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel are other alternativesCredit: EPAThere is a natural preference to appoint an English successor.And in an ideal world, the England manager should always be English. But this is not an ideal scenario.If, as expected, Southgate quits in the coming days, there would be no obvious English candidate.So the FA must be ambitious in sounding out the best man for the job, regardless of nationality.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBecause England need a manager who would gain instant respect with players, who would be tactically bold enough to take on Spain and a strong enough character to deal with Jude Bellingham’s Real Madrid Galactico status, which threatens to cause future issues within the England squad. Yes, when the FA have gone foreign in the past, it hasn’t worked out well.Yet the problem with Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello was that neither had any previous involvement in English football.They lacked knowledge and understanding of the football culture — indeed, Capello barely spoke the language.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSNow there is a wealth of overseas managerial talent with significant Premier League experience, including Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino, Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel.Most read in Euro 2024Manchester City boss Guardiola and Real godfather Ancelotti are managing the best two club sides in the world and are unlikely to leave their posts to take on Nations League fixtures against Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.Heartbroken England heroes land back in London to just one fan after devastating loss to Spain in Euro 2024 finalBut if you don’t ask, you never know.Whatever it was in Klopp’s life that made him leave Liverpool, the German clearly wants a lengthy break. But England’s next meaningful fixtures are not until March.As an adopted Scouser, Klopp might not fancy it and he would certainly be a divisive figure among the media. But he is an intriguing candidate. Again — don’t ask, don’t get.Poch is available and he has helped to nurture a substantial number of England’s players over the past decade — including Harry Kane, Kyle Walker, Luke Shaw and Cole Palmer.The Argentinian would make an excellent England boss. Except that he is Argentinian. Which doesn’t bother us much but does the Argentinians.Anti-English feeling can still run deep in his native land. Take this job and he might never be able to go home.Tuchel, a Champions League winner, is available and keen but the German is a combustible character.This felt like our time… but keep Gareth’s culture and we can win it in 2026 instead, writes Jack WilshereIT will take a while for me and every England fan to get over this, writes Jack Wilshere.To come so close to winning that trophy, only to be beaten in a second Euros final in a row, is a huge disappointment.Especially when it really felt like this was our time.It seemed that everything was coming together for us to end the long wait for a major title.But Spain deserved it. They were the better team in the final and the best team of the tournament.We will all — supporters, players, coaches, the FA — have to move on and go again.Because English football is still in a good position.Gareth Southgate has taken us to two finals, a semi-final and a quarter-final in four tournaments. We have never produced a run like that before.The challenge now is to maintain this level of competitiveness and make England even better.Southgate and his staff have done a fantastic job in changing the whole environment and narrative around the national team.Whether Gareth carries on or not, the wider culture he has put in place must be preserved.This tournament was the biggest test of that culture the team had to go through.They overcame the problems and went all the way, only to fall at the final hurdle.But there is every reason to believe we can challenge at the World Cup in 2026 and beyond.We’ve got a really good group of players, many of them young, who can go on playing and performing for England for years.Jude Bellingham, Kobbie Mainoo, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer — to name just five — have plenty more tournaments in them.This tournament will also be an inspiration for the next generations of players. Unfortunately there isn’t the trophy lift to take that to a completely different level.But England have delivered moments in Germany that will be replayed forever.The Bellingham overhead kick and Ollie Watkins’ semi-final winner will be recreated in playgrounds and cages up and down the country.What I would like to see now is England continuing to develop, to become a team that can consistently dominate opponents and can give a real identity to English football.We now have players who are comfortable on the ball and technically very good.The biggest disappointment of the tournament was that we didn’t see that as often as we would have liked. That leaves us with a ‘what if?’ feeling.England must not lose that old-school mentality of finding a way to win even when you’re not playing well — that never-say-die spirit which got us through this Euros more than once.But the next step is to allow other qualities to shine through, to give the players that our system is creating the platform to show  everything they can do.The job for me and for other coaches is to keep producing players that are comfortable on the ball and understand how to perform under pressure at a high level.English football is in a good place but we need to keep going. Then we will finally get over the line.Real all of SunSport columnist Jack Wilshere’s Euro 2024 columns…The FA, so used to a smooth, clubbable diplomat like Southgate, might baulk at the man who has just left Bayern Munich.So looking abroad might not work out but it’s an avenue which has to be explored.Because there isn’t much of a field among English, even British and Irish, bosses.Graham Potter is the bookies’ favourite but the ex-Chelsea manager, who hasn’t worked for 15 months, is Southgate Lite.Nice bloke, emotionally intelligent, tactically cautious but without the vast international back catalogue Southgate brought to the job — with 57 caps as a player and spells as Under-21s boss and as an FA backroom operator.Eddie Howe would have been Southgate’s likeliest successor had he parted ways with Newcastle this summer after a season of regression on Tyneside.But Geordie Arabia’s overlords have stayed loyal to Howe, who would be unlikely to walk out on such a wealthy and ambitious club, even though he would like a stab at the England job in the future.England ratings: Palmer the super sub but captain Kane struggles yet again in Spain heartbreakCOLE PALMER came off the bench to be England’s star man – but his heroics were unable to stop heartbreak against Spain, writes Tom Barclay.Mikel Oyarzabal struck a late dagger through the hearts of the Three Lions to seal a 2-1 Spanish victory.And that ensured that 58 years of hurt will go on.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated each England player in the crushing defeat:Jordan Pickford: 8Carefully controlled a blast of a backpass from John Stones on his line in the first half. Could do little to stop Williams’ opener but made two terrific stops to deny Yamal, only for Oyarzabal to poke home at the death.Kyle Walker: 6Had his hands full with Williams but managed the Spanish livewire pretty well but could not get near his powerful opener. John Stones: 8A colossus again as he played every single minute of this Euros, despite lack of Manchester City game-time. Superb block on early Williams shot, was often in the right place at the right time and at one point dribbled all the way up the pitch.Marc Guehi: 6Solid alongside Stones and overall it has been a brilliant first tournament for the Crystal Palace star. But Oyarzabal nicked in front of him for the winner.Bukayo Saka: 7Most consistent attacker for England across the tournament and had a good battle with pantomime villain Marc Cucurella here. It was his cross that Bellingham laid off for Palmer to work his magic.Declan Rice: 7Went past his boss Gareth Southgate’s cap haul by winning his 58th here and he is still only 25. Was in the thick of it in the midfield battle throughout. Kobbie Mainoo: 5Just 19 and starting a major final for England in the middle of midfield. Fewer bursts forward though than in recent games as his side struggled for possession and was subbed for Palmer as Southgate searched for a leveller. Luke Shaw: 7Looked so sharp for a player making his first start since Luton away on February 10, winning his battle against Lamine Yamal in the first half. But Yamal got the better of him after the break to tee up Williams’ opener.Phil Foden: 6Out of possession it was his job to man-mark Manchester City colleague Rodri, until the Spanish maestro went off injured at half-time. Had a half-chance just before the break but could not beat Unai Simon.Jude Bellingham: 7Shunted wide left when England did not have the ball – which was a lot of the time. Riskily flew into a few tackles, but it was his clever lay-off that teed up Palmer.Harry Kane: 4His lack of involvement was summed up by England fans calling for Ollie Watkins in the 57th minute. They got their wish on the hour.SUBS: Ollie Watkins: 6Semi-final hero was introduced far earlier here to get some legs in behind, though he did not have too much impact this time.Cole Palmer: 9What an impact after emerging with just twenty minutes to go. Yet another of Southgate’s subs paid off handsomely as Palmer curled a peach of an equaliser with 17 minutes remaining, sending most of the Olympiastadion potty.Ivan Toney: 6Thrown on right at the end but could not make an impact.Gareth Southgate: 7The game was a chess match for the first half and Southgate was never going to go early with his bold moves.His subs were excellent to be fair, with Palmer brilliantly getting his team back into it.Critics will say England did not play attacking enough but Spain are one hell of a side – and Southgate’s men pushed them all the way.After that we are left with Frank Lampard, who fits the profile in terms of international experience and excellent media skills.The only slight drawback is he doesn’t seem to be a particularly good manager.Current England U21s boss Lee Carsley — who won the European Championships last summer — is also highly regarded within the FA.But the Brummie-born former Everton midfielder won 40 caps for Ireland and, at the age of 50, he has never been the full-time manager of a men’s team.Steve Cooper, a Welshman who guided England’s U17s to the 2017 World Cup and was a success at Nottingham Forest, would have been a serious contender had he not just taken over at Leicester.Brendan Rodgers is another who should be in with a shout.The Celtic boss is a Northern Irish Catholic, which matters more than it should with some people.Maybe Kane really is cursed as trophy drought goes on… he may never get a better chance with EnglandIT now seems as though he really is cursed. Along with the rest of us, writes Charlie Wyett.Tragically, unbelievably, Harry Kane’s agonising search for a trophy still continues and you know have to wonder whether he will ever actually manage it.Certainly for England, in any case.Kane has now suffered defeat in three major club finals and two finals of the European Championships.Last night, the Three Lions captain was so ineffective that he was replaced by Ollie Watkins just after the hour.Like much of this tournament, he really struggled to make the impact when England needed him, not that he had much service.He had one shot in the first half and that was Rodri, who subsequently injured himself and went off at the break.When Cole Palmer struck that brilliant equaliser, Kane was off on his feet from the bench, only for the national team to get another kick in the bo**ocks at the end.Kane was substituted in both the games against Switzerland and Holland which England went on to win but on this occasion, he could only witness a gut-wrenching twist just when it looked as though Gareth Southgate’s team had dug their way out of trouble.The Bayern Munich striker suffered the World Cup 2018 semi-final loss against Croatia, endured heartbreak against Italy in the Euro2020 final and then missed from the spot in the World Cup 2022 quarter-final against France.He really thought that this was his time, even though England did not play well in Germany.Kane will know that he will have more opportunities with England. But not many more.The World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico seems a long way away and it will surely be under a new manager. Will England be better than they are now? Probably not.And we are all left to wonder how much better England would have been with a fit and firing Kane at his very best.Read the full verdict on the curse of Harry Kane…Or check out all of Charlie Wyett’s Euro 2024 stories…But he is a forward-thinking, media-friendly manager who would tick a lot of boxes with the FA. England may have reached a second successive Euros final in Germany but in performance terms they regressed from the Qatar 2022 World Cup.In the Middle East, Southgate’s side played boldly and played well in four matches out of five, including their narrow quarter-final defeat by defending champs France.That was a game England could easily have won. Sunday’s final against Spain had the same 2-1 scoreline but the gulf between the teams was vast.Across the tournament, England played well in three halves of football out of 14 and they were fortunate not to meet a world-class team before the final.Yet still, Southgate’s record of two finals, a semi-final and a quarter in four tournaments is historically excellent.When you look at potential candidates and the job spec and you consider the preference for an English boss to fit in with the FA’s coaching talent pathway, there is one man clearly best suited to leading the Three Lions into the next World Cup.And I’m sorry to disappoint you but that man is Gareth Southgate.MADE A MARCAFTER Harry Maguire was ruled out through injury, there were obvious concerns about Marc Guehi’s place in the England starting line-up at the Euros.It felt a big ask for a player with little international experience — and with no previous in European club football — who had missed three months through injury at the back end of the domestic season.But the Crystal Palace centre-back was mostly excellent as England reached a first final on foreign soil.Guehi looks like being an England regular for years to come.Marc Guehi looks like being an England regular for years to comeCredit: GettyANOTHER NOTEDURING the Euros, myself and three colleagues made a habit of listening to classic England tournament songs in the car on the way to matches.Given that three out of the four of us are serious about good music, this was done in an ironic way.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, I’m still infected by an earworm of England’s 1982 ditty This Time (We’ll Get It Right) as I sit at Berlin Airport departure gate. The squad can be seen warbling it on the right.So let’s be grateful that the Three Lions no longer head into the recording studios before tournaments. More

    • 200 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Football in England BANNED for four weeks as little-known rules take effect ahead of Euro 2024

      by

      A LITTLE-KNOW FA rule has seen football in England BANNED ahead of Euro 2024.The England national team is gearing up for its European Championship campaign in Germany as it looks to go one better than runners-up at Euro 2020.Football games in England are not permitted between June 1 and June 30Credit: GettyFA rules only allow for only a few exceptions including national representative matchesCredit: GettyThat has seen two friendlies – one a 3-0 win against Bosnia & Herzegovina and a second against Iceland – booked before the tournament proper begins on June 14.However, fans wanting to play football of their own will not be able to do so until after June 30, at least in an 11-a-side capacity.This is thanks to an FA rule which stops all competitive 11-a-side matches during the “Close Season” – including grassroots and youth level.Under the rules, no affiliated teams or referees are allowed to participate in games unless they are expressly given permission to do so.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe rules state: “The Close Season shall be defined as the period between June 1 and June 30 inclusive each year…”No matches other than those permitted and played in accordance with paragraph (c) of these rules may be played in the Close Season.”FA “Close SeasonThe close season is between June 1 and June 30 each calendar year.
      11 v 11 games cannot be played in June.
      The following may be played in the Close Season:- Small Sided formats (3 v 3, 4v 4, 5v 5, 6 v 6, 7 v 7, 8 v 8, 9v 9) can be played in June – This includes festivals and single matches
      – Those  matches organised in connection with works’ clubs sports days on private grounds and at fetes and similar sports functions
      – Matches between Army, Navy and Royal Air Force teams and teams of the Auxiliary Forces in Competitions whilst in camp 
      – Matches involving members of scouts, guides and similar organisations in Competitions whilst in camp
      – Matches for national representative teams or clubs played under the auspices of FIFA or UEFA; 
      – Matches between Clubs in the Premier League, the EFL, FAWSL and FAWC for the following season 
      – Single day, weekend and bank holiday competitions and festivals meeting the criteria and receiving sanction; and B8.3.8 Pilot projects granted dispensation by The Association or sanctioning Affiliated Association
      With the exception of charity matches, all competing teams must be affiliated.

      They add that only 9v9 and below matches are allowed in June, including festival and single matches. Among the other allowances to play 11v11 are fixtures organised privately as a clubs sports day, matches played between the Army, Navy, RAF and Auxiliary Forces whilst in camp and for charity events.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThat means Soccer Aid is obviously not under threat.Matches for national representative teams under Fifa or Uefa are permitted too, hence why the Three Lions and Lionesses are able to play international matches this month.Joe Cole and Rio Ferdinand pick their England starting 11 for opening game of EurosGareth Southgate’s squad have their final warm-up match this Friday, before kicking off the tournament on June 16th against Serbia.In that time, Southgate will need to cut his provisional 33-player team down to 26. The likes of Eberechi Eze and Cole Palmer laid down their credentials for a spot on the plane in the 3-0 win in last night’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. More

    • 288 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      I was banned for ten years for alleged spot-fixing in the FA Cup, Lucas Paqueta should get a 40-year ban if he’s guilty

      by

      FORMER non-league star Kynan Isaac called on the FA to smash Lucas Paqueta with a 40-YEAR ban for alleged spot-fixing.Isaac was banned for ten years in October 2022 after being found guilty by football’s ruling body of deliberately getting himself booked in an FA Cup tie.Kynan Isaac reveals he got depressed after his ban ‘but nobody from the PFA or FA got in touch to see how I was’West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been charged in relation to four bookings but denies doing anything wrongCredit: RexIt was claimed full-back Isaac’s caution for Stratford Town in a 5-1 loss to Shrewsbury in November 2021 was part of a betting scheme with pals.West Ham and Brazil midfielder Paqueta, 26, has been charged with deliberately getting himself booked in FOUR separate Prem matches so that he and/or his friends could benefit by betting on that happening. He denies any wrongdoing.Isaac, 31, said: “It will be very interesting to see what they do to him, there’s no point in me sitting here and letting everyone else get away with it.“It’s basic maths — if I got done for ten years for doing it once, by the same book he should get 40 years for doing it four times.READ MORE ON LUCAS PAQUETA“I can’t wait to see what they give him — it will be something pathetic like about a year or two, because he’s got money and an expensive lawyer.“If that happens they won’t be able to ignore me and the ban they gave me.”Isaac was also hit with a further 18-month ban after being found guilty of placing, or enabling, almost 350 bets on matches over a five-year period. The combined rap ensured he could not play until after his 40th birthday.Most read in FootballOne allegation against Brazil international Paqueta concerns this booking for a foul on Boubakary SoumareCredit: PAThe FA stopped him from playing immediately after his charges were announced and referred the case to police. He added: “The police came to my house and told  me there was a  warrant out for my arrest for X, Y and Z. I had my kids with me,  so I asked if I could hand myself in at a certain time.Top 10 highest paid footballers in the world revealed with no Premier League players making the top five“I went there the next day at about midday with my lawyer and the police threw it out. I got a ten-year ban, even though they threw it out.“It will be interesting if they do the same with Paqueta, will he get the police turning up at his door. If not, why not? Why should he be treated any differently to me?“Also, even though I don’t know the exact details about what bets we’re talking about, it’s bound to be in the thousands. With me it was pennies.”Isaac — who passed his test to be a driving instructor  — was tempted to speak out when Brentford and England star Ivan Toney escaped with an eight-month ban a year ago after admitting 232 breaches of betting rules.The FA literally stopped me from playing any football, even seven-a-side or Sunday League. No-one worried about my mental health.He was also angered when Nottingham Forest’s Harry Toffolo was given a suspended five-month ban in September for 375 breaches of betting rules.Toffolo claimed he made the wagers when his “mental health was at a very low ebb”.Isaac said: “It was mentally awful for me. “Non-league footballer gets a ten-year ban and then you see a big-name star Toney — who was putting thousands of pounds on — still being allowed to play when he had been charged  and getting an England call-up.“His ban was really only six months, because it included the off-season. And he’ll be at the Euros.“The FA literally stopped me from playing any football, even seven-a-side or Sunday League.READ MORE SUN STORIES“No-one worried about my mental health after getting such a huge ban.“I was depressed and it hit me hard but nobody from the PFA or FA got in touch to see how I was.”Paqueta was booked for a challenge on John McGinn in one incidentCredit: RexHe tripped Crysencio Summerville to receive another cautionCredit: Sky SportsThe fourth Paqueta yellow in question involved a handballCredit: Sly Sports More