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      England’s Raheem Sterling and Jordan Henderson will get MBEs in the Queen’s birthday honours this week

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      ENGLAND’S Raheem Sterling and Jordan Henderson will get MBEs in the Queen’s honours this week.Sterling, 26, is recognised for his anti-racism work, and Henderson, 30, for helping to raise millions for the NHS during the Covid pandemic via the Players Together fund.
      ⚽ Follow ALL of the latest news and updates from Euro 2020 with our live blog
      Raheem Sterling will receive an MBE for his anti-racism workCredit: Getty
      Jordan Henderson will also be recognised for his NHS fundraising effortsCredit: Getty
      Liverpool skipper Henderson has become an unofficial spokesman for stars, talking articulately about their charity drives.
      He has worked with Man City hero ­Sterling on anti-discrimination initiatives.
      PM Boris Johnson is said to have signed off their awards.
      A Whitehall source said: “This is great news on the eve of the Euros.
      “Raheem and Jordan have been role models in the truest sense in the past few years.
      “They’ve stood up and been counted, placing themselves in the firing line for what they believe in.
      “Together with Marcus Rashford, they’ve proved there is a different side to a lot of footballers.
      The PM has signed off on Sterling and Henderson’s awardsCredit: PA

      “They are obvious choices when you look at their achievements.
      “Boris gave the move his resounding approval. He has admired both for some time.”
      The Queen’s Birthday Honours will be announced late on Friday.
      The Queen’s Birthday Honours will be announced on FridayCredit: PA:Press Association
      Gareth Southgate talks about Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson’s chances of playing in the Euros More

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      England fans and pubs beg Boris Johnson to call time on killjoy Covid clamps – to kick off Euro 2020 boozer boom

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      ENGLAND fans and pubs begged Boris Johnson to call time on killjoy Covid clamps yesterday — so the country can kick off a Euro 2020 boozer boom.Rule of six restrictions will apply when the Three Lions, captained by Harry Kane, play their first two matches against Croatia and Scotland, thwarting large-scale fan fun.
      Pubs have urged Boris Johnson to stick to his guns and unlock the country on June 21 to boost the economyCredit: Splash
      And pressure mounted on Boris to stick to his guns and end hospitality restrictions on June 21 as excitement mounted ahead of tomorrow’s big tournament kick-off.
      The plea came as a survey revealed the vast majority of footie revellers miss pub action — with half more likely to watch games at their local if curbs are lifted.
      British Beer & Pub Association data revealed 85 per cent of pub-going football fans believe the current restrictions will spoil their Euro 2020 enjoyment this summer.
      Findings from a poll of 1,000 regulars showed Covid rules could tarnish the showpiece — while driving desperate pubs out of business.
      It showed 91 per cent said they missed watching games at the pub when they were fully closed during lockdowns.
      But half said they would be more likely to return to watch Euro 2020 at their pub if all restrictions on pubs are lifted.
      At present, pubs are required to ensure one-metre-plus social distancing is in place, operate table service only and ensure that face masks are worn when not seated. 
      Group sizes are also limited to six, and standing at a bar or standing while drinking is not permitted anywhere.
      The rule of six will apply when the Three Lions, captained by Harry Kane, play their first two matchesCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      BBPA chiefs begged the PM to stick to his guns and lift all restrictions on June 21, in time for England’s last group game against the Czech Republic the next day.
      The tournament, delayed from last summer, is seen as a vital springboard back to normal service.
      And if pubs, supermarkets and high streets are able to cash in on it properly, it could provide a £5billion boost to the economy.
      Millions of fans will spend £1billion drinking 120million pints — with the same again spent on food and booze for home parties. 
      That will include 100million burgers and 80million sausages — and 100,000 new barbecues to cook them on. There will also be 20million pizzas sold and 500,000 new TVs to watch the matches on.
      Pub bosses across the nation are praying for a repeat of England’s epic run to the World Cup semi-finals in 2018. It sparked sales of an extra 40million pints.
      St George’s flags fly from residents’ homes at the Kirby Estate in Bermondsey, south LondonCredit: AFPWhat we’ll be buying

      120mpints
      100mburgers
      20mpizzas
      100Kpizzas
      500Knew TVs
      100Kfootie shirts
      30KEngland flags

      But UK Hospitality has predicted that a two-week delay to easing restrictions could cost the industry an estimated £1.5billion.
      Pub retailer Greene King warned it would lose a crippling £1million a day during every England football game that takes place without the rules being eased.
      But yesterday pub boss and Sheffield United fan Adam Chamberlain, 43, was flying the flag for England — and every other Euro nation — as he prayed for the long-awaited rule change.
      He has decked out his Greene King boozer, The Big Tree in Sheffield, with 500 flags and 2,000ft of bunting.
      Adam spent 36 hours painstakingly pinning up flags from every nation, while placing St George’s flags and two giant inflatable England mascots in pole position.
      He said: “I’d like to think this is the best-decorated pub in the UK.
      “We wanted to do something special for the Euros because it’s been quite a tough year and we’re all just buzzing for this. We wanted to lift spirits and get everyone excited and thought go big or go home.
      “Once I started putting up flags for the Euros I just couldn’t stop. 
      “Everyone in the business is so excited after such a terrible 18 months. Euro 2020 is vital for our trade and it’s going to be a great football party. But if England do as well as I hope they will, restrictions end on June 21 and this heatwave continues, it’s going to be an unforgettable summer.
      “I don’t want to get ahead of myself, but I’ve a feeling it’s coming home.”
      Pressure is mounting on Boris Johnson to stick to his guns and lift restrictions on June 21Credit: Andrew Parsons / No10 Downing StreetBank to Boris AN end to all lockdown restrictions on June 21 is needed to give the economy its full “mojo” back, a boss at the Bank of England has said.

      Andy Haldane, the Bank’s chief economist, said that the UK’s recovery was going “gangbusters”, and outstripping that of other big economies around the world. 
      But he reckons the easing of all restrictions would be “fantastic for the economy” and “would put the mojo back into both businesses and workers”.

      Elsewhere, an entire housing estate was swathed in England flags yesterday as fun-starved fans ditched Covid fears — and caught Euro 2020 fever instead.
      Residents on the Kirby Estate in Bermondsey, South East London, spent days hanging bunting and flags over their balconies, street lamps and to walls.
      One, Chris Dowse, 42, said: “Saw one of my neighbours, Alan, had put a couple of flags up.
      “I thought ‘Oh, that looks nice’, and I looked over to the other block and saw a lady had also put a couple of flags up. 
      “But it just didn’t look finished, so I said to Alan ‘let’s go get some more’.
      “We ended up buying more and more and more then we all came together and said ‘Right, we’re doing it properly and we’ll have the whole estate done.”
      The entire estate was also decked with flags during England’s run in Russia three years ago.
      But this year there will also be a Scottish flag.
      Chris said: “The chap who lives there, his dad was English and his mum was Scottish. 
      The Sun says
      IMAGINE watching the Euros in a pub with table service, the rule of six and social distancing. Millions would stay at home.
      So we join fans and pub bosses in beseeching Boris Johnson not to be swayed by rising cases — and to fully open our boozers on June 21 in time for the later stages of the tournament.
      Yesterday infections climbed again, to 7,540. It’s the highest in months. But that’s where the gloomy stats end.
      Cases began their sharp increase over three weeks ago, yet hospitalisations and deaths remain low. It’s no longer inevitable they will soar too — because 28,540,844 of us have had two jabs and 40,710,319 one. And yesterday alone one million young people booked theirs.
      Hold your nerve, PM.

      “They’ve both sadly passed away in the last 18 months or so, so he’s put the Scottish flag up on one side, to honour his mum, and England flag up on the other side.
      “We’ve also got a Portuguese flag up and we’re due to have a German one, French and Spanish.
      “If you want to put your flag up, as long as you’re in the Championships we’ll put it up for you.”
      A footy-loving pub landlord has boasted having the ‘best decorated pub’ in the UK after creating an amazing display featuring FIVE HUNDRED flags on the eve of Euro 2020 More

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      David Beckham checks out £10million luxury superyacht on trip to Italy

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      DAVID Beckham is eyeing another spell as skipper — of a £10million superyacht.The ex-England football captain, 46, flew to Italy to check out potential purchases.
      What David Beckham might look like in at the helm of a £10million superyacht
      Becks was spotted out and about on a yacht tour in Italy
      Video shows the star in a beige jacket, tan trousers and shades meeting officials from shipbuilder Ferretti.
      He smiled for pictures with two female fans before a tour of the 110ft, four-year-old Telli, worth £10million.
      The yacht can accommodate ten in its five cabins and has a crew of seven.
      It has a maximum speed of 15 knots (17mph) and range of 1,500 miles — putting the Med within easy reach of the UK.
      Beckham smiled for pictures with fans at the Riva Ferretti shipyard
      Becks then went on a tour of the 110ft, four-year-old Telli, worth £10million
      A source in the port of La Spezia said: “David was given the full works by senior management.
      “Telli is the pride of the fleet and perfect for a family holiday.
      “Below deck the doors open to reveal an internal pool.”
      Dad-of-four Becks, worth £300million, also visited Maserati’s plant in Modena to view its £215,000 MC20.
      A source said the former England captain ‘was given the full works by senior management’Credit: Allsport – Getty
      The source added: ‘Telli is the pride of the fleet and perfect for a family holiday’Credit: Getty
      Becks later flew back to England where he faces quarantineCredit: Getty

      He raved: “Such an amazing car.”
      He later flew back to England where he will face a ten-day quarantine since Italy is on the amber list of Covid countries.
      Ferretti confirmed the visit but did not comment further “due to the privacy and confidentiality of clients”.
      Ed Sheeran and David Beckham in promo as Ed set to unveil latest song More

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      To everyone who’s kept sport going, a massive fan-ks

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      SPORT. There’s a lot of it about at the moment.We have just had the end of the Premier League season, marked by the ­brilliance of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, a truly memorable all- English ­Champions League final deservedly won by a ­tactically supreme Chelsea and, of course, a wonderful FA Cup victory for my own Leicester City.
      Kasper Schmeichel and Wes Morgan of Leicester City lift the Emirates FA Cup Trophy in celebrationCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The Euros kick off tomorrow with all the hope and expectation that comes with international football, says Gary LinekerCredit: Eyevine
      The Euros kick off tomorrow with all the hope and expectation that comes with international football.
      Premiership Rugby’s season is building to a Twickenham ­crescendo, Wimbledon will be available in all its glory, and England’s cricketers have a very busy summer.
      And that’s before we even mention the Olympics and Paralympics.
      There is one major difference in all those events compared to the previous 15 months of top-level sport — the attendance of (at least some) fans.
      And for me, that’s what sport is really about. Of course the competition and excellence matters but its real meaning is how it affects us, how it brings us together as a community and a country.
      That’s why — as we begin to come out of lockdown restrictions — sport is coming together to say thank you to everyone who has helped us through the past 15 months.
      Sport is coming together to say thank you to everyone who has helped us through the past 15 months – here Harlequins rugby stars appreciate the return of the club’s fansCredit: Rex
      A great source of escapism
      As part of the national Thank You Day on Sunday, July 4, we’ll be taking a moment to say thanks — not just to institutions like the NHS but to people who personally helped us through the last 15 months.
      For me, that includes family, friends and colleagues. The reality is we all have someone to thank. Too often life takes over and we don’t get the chance to say those thank yous. I hope this day changes that.
      As sports fans we have particular people to thank including all those who have helped keep sport going and who have now started the process of helping sport, and its communities, to start getting back to being a normal, everyday part of people’s lives.
      That football, cricket and rugby matches have continued throughout much of Covid-19 has been a great source of escapism and entertainment for millions — bits of normality and opportunities to connect during the most challenging and disjointed of years.
      But there has been a huge effort behind the scenes, and support from key workers, to allow this to happen.
      We have particular people to thank including all those who have helped keep sport going. Gary Lineker
      There have also been the grass roots volunteers, patching together leagues and fixtures between the lockdowns, learning things they had never imagined so they could institute Covid-safe policies.
      That football, cricket and rugby matches have continued throughout much of Covid-19 has been a great source of escapism, says LinekerCredit: Getty
      Omar Virdi of Surrey appeals during day three of the LV=Insurance County Championship between Surrey and GloucestershireCredit: Getty
      And the council facility managers and those workers who have kept the parks and commons open and safe for use by runners and families who needed space for their kids to exercise.
      That is why coming together on Thank You Day is not only important in recognising the efforts that have helped keep sport going, but to recognise the importance of sport as a force for connecting people.
      What we have been seeing are the foundations for sport, to borrow a phrase, to build back better. To take some of the lessons learned during the pandemic and make sport, at all levels, even better, more accessible and more connected than ever before.
      The observations about how important fans and the grass roots of any sport are to sustaining it — from its broad base to the very top — need to be more than quotes in an annual report or platitudes on the role of sport in society.
      While the Government’s intervention on the woefully conceived European Super League was welcome, the main reason they got involved was because it was so unpopular with the fans. Siding with those who sustained teams through thick and thin over many years, and now more importantly than ever, should be the norm.
      And it should be enshrined into the governance of sport, so some of these terrible ideas never gain the momentum where a last-ditch challenge needs to be made.
      Coming together on Thank You Day is key as we recognise the importance of sport as a force for connecting peopleCredit: Getty
      Chelsea’s Timo Werner and teammates celebrate following the UEFA Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea FC in Porto, PortugalCredit: EPA
      Cheaper tickets and better facilities
      The relationship with the groups that keep teams and competitions going needs reassessing, whether that’s participation, attendance or the commercial side that delivers the investment that should mean cheaper ticket prices and better grass roots facilities.
      The same goes for sport in school — too often overlooked and undervalued.
      We have a generation of kids who have missed out on more than a year of school-based sporting activity.
      The health and education benefits of proper physical education are clear, and that lost ground needs making up.
      We all enjoy the exploits of our sporting stars and the sense of occasion and national pride a match at Wembley, Edgbaston, Wimbledon or Twickenham gives us.
      It’s the start of getting back to normal and an opportunity to use the power of sport to bring people together.Gary Lineker
      But let’s use this opportunity to take some of the positives from the pandemic to make sure that sport is reconnected to its communities, that grass roots coaching and facilities are prioritised, and that our kids are given the best possible introduction to an activity that will have lifelong education and health benefits.
      With a generation of kids who missed out on more than a year of school-based sporting activity, we must not undervalue sport in schoolsCredit: Getty
      The health and education benefits of proper physical education are clear, and that lost ground needs making up, says LinekerCredit: Getty
      That’s why Thank You Day is important.
      It’s the start of getting back to normal and an opportunity to use the power of sport to bring people together.
      It’s also a fitting way to thank all those who made sacrifices so things like football, rugby, tennis, cricket and a host of other sports can keep delivering benefits big and small.
      Thank You Day is the start of getting back to normalCredit: Getty
      TRIBUTE TO OTHER COVID HEROES
      LEADING stars and organisations have come together to salute the UK’s army of volunteers who have kept grass roots sport going during the pandemic.
      Their support comes ahead of plans for Thank You Day on Sunday, July 4 – when the nation is invited to pay tribute to the extraordinary efforts of ordinary people as Covid took hold.
      Eddie Jones said ‘To those who have dedicated their time to keeping grass roots sport going, giving people an outlet and something to look forward to, thank you’Credit: Marc Aspland NMCPool
      Ahead of kicking off our Euro 2020 campaign, England football captain Harry Kane said: “We all have people to be grateful for, and the national Thank You Day is a moment we are proud to be part of.
      “Whoever you’re thanking, join your neighbours and communities and say thank you together.”

      Eddie Jones, head coach of England Rugby Union, said: “To those who have dedicated their time to keeping grass roots sport going, giving people an outlet and something to look forward to, thank you.”
      Sport England, the British Paralympic Association and the All England Lawn Tennis Club are among a number of organisations supporting the idea for a day of celebration. Thank You Day, which is backed by Dame Judi Dench, the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and others, will fall a week before the Euro 2020 final is played at Wembley.
      Dame Katherine Grainger, former Olympic rower and chair of UK Sport, said: “Thank You Day is a great opportunity to acknowledge the way we have all supported each other over the last 18 months.”
      Gary Lineker forced to pull out of BT Sport Champions League coverage tonight after Covid scare More

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      Daniel James out to banish Man Utd Europa League final heartbreak and take Euro 2020 by storm with Wales pal Gareth Bale

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      DAN JAMES is out to banish the painful memory of Manchester United’s Europa League final heartache at the Euros.The Wales winger, 23, scored a penalty in the Red Devils’ 11-10 shoot-out defeat to Villarreal last month.
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      Daniel James (right) is hoping to bounce back from Europa League heartbreakCredit: AFP
      But James admitted he and his potless United team-mates were left ‘gutted’ after returning from Poland empty-handed.
      Now the prospect of a first Euro finals appearance in Saturday’s Group A opener with Switzerland in Baku is driving him on again.
      James said: “It was gutting for all of us really. For me and a lot of the other players it’s not the end of our season. In football you just have to get back up and get on with it.
      “Thankfully we don’t have to wait until next season to do that and we can go into the Euros and a different environment and look forward to getting back out on the pitch which is what we all want as players.”
      The 20-cap wideman is an integral part of Wales’ attack alongside captain Gareth Bale.
      James has started all of Wales’ 16 competitive fixtures since he made his international debut in a friendly with Albania in November 2018.
      But James was picked in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s starting eleven just 18 times out of United’s 61 games last season.
      Yet the ex-Swansea attacker, who moved to Old Trafford for £15million in the summer of 2019, dismissed the notion his performances have been better for Wales than United.
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      James added: “I wouldn’t say so. I think I’ve had great games for United as well.
      “Maybe the Wales ones stick out a little bit more. I may have got a few more assists for Wales. It’s been a little bit more consistent than it has been at United.
      “For every player, you want a consistency of games.”
      James’ spot-kick in the Gdansk final could prove handy if Rob Page’s Wales can reach the knock-out stages.
      He said: “It went fine but I’d be lying to you if I didn’t say I was a little bit nervous. I was confident to go and step up.
      “For me you have to put yourself in those moments because it’s going to happen in your career and you have to put yourself forward. Thankfully it went in the back of the net. It could be [useful] at the Euros.”
      ⚽Get ALL of the latest Wales news and updates from Euro 2020
      Wales’ mix of youth an experience has generated optimism within the campCredit: PA
      Speedy James hopes to tear up the Euros with his lightning pace. And he believes Wales’ opponents will be fearful of their attacking weapons including Bale and the fit-again duo of Aaron Ramsey and David Brooks.
      James said: “Whoever is put on the pitch attacking-wise, we’ve got a great group and will definitely be feared.
      “It’s one of the first times everyone has been in the squad. David and Aaron have had injuries over the past two years but when they have come into the squad they have been unbelievable.
      “I’ve only played for Wales with Aaron once or twice and he scored two goals against Hungary.
      “For us it’s just brilliant that everyone is involved. I know the Euros was supposed to be last summer and everyone was gutted but it’s great for the players who are now all fit and we have a full squad this time and we’re all raring to go.
      “Any team with pace is feared. In tournament football there are going to be times where we will have to sit back, especially with the hot weather, and then go on the break. It’s a great attribute to have throughout the team.
      If we want to hit teams on the break we have to win the ball back in the right areas to get those chances.Daniel James

      “I have freedom but the way we defend is from the front and it’s so important. If we want to hit teams on the break we have to win the ball back in the right areas to get those chances.
      “I’ve definitely matured as a player but I still have to do my defensive duties.
      “Me and Gaz have played both wide positions before and if we play on either side we’re ready and we know our job and roles. Just being on the pitch is great for me. I’d play anywhere.”
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      Bale and Wales stars fly out to Baku ahead of Switzerland clash More

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      Jordan Henderson fears England fans will prove country still has racism problem in Euro 2020 opener vs Croatia

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      JORDAN HENDERSON fears England fans will prove on Sunday that the country still has a racism issue.Three Lions stars were booed by supporters for taking the knee ahead of friendly wins against Austria and Romania in Middlesbrough.

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      Jordan Henderson has admitted his fan fears over taking the kneeCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdWIN £50,000 with Dream Team EurosDream Team Euros is HERE!

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      Hendo predicts more jeers before the Euros opener against Croatia at Wembley.
      He said: “If there’s still people booing because we’re standing together against racism, then there really still is a problem and we’ve still got to fight it and stand together on that.
      “It shows even more that we have to keep going, keep fighting it.
      “From our side, it’s about being together and doing what we think is right — and that’s what we feel is right.
      “We’ve made it very clear that we all stand together against racism.
      “That’s the reason that we continue to take the knee and have done over the last few weeks.”
      Last night Hungary fans booed Republic of Ireland players taking the knee before their 0-0 draw.
      Ireland boss Stephen Kenny said: “It doesn’t reflect well on Hungary.”
      BETTING SPECIAL – GET ENGLAND TO WIN EURO 2020 AND HARRY KANE TO BE TOP SCORER AT 18/1
      Republic of Ireland players booed and jeered by Hungary fans as they took a knee before kick-off in Budapest

      Writing for the Players’ Tribune, boss Gareth Southgate said: “There are genuine risks for our players online and I will always want to protect them.
      “There are things I will never understand. Why would you tag someone in on a conversation that is abusive?  Why would you insult somebody for something as ridiculous as the colour of their skin?
      “Unfortunately for those people that engage in that kind of behaviour, I have some bad news. You’re on the losing side.”
      Raheem Sterling said: “If you can’t understand the meaning behind it, then it’s a real disappointment to see that.”
      ⚽ Follow ALL of the latest news and updates from Euro 2020 with our live blog More

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      James Corden quizzes Jose Mourinho on the Euros, penalties, Harry Kane… and cricket

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      WHILE their lives couldn’t be more different, Jose Mourinho and James Corden have more in ­common than you may think.Both are seasoned pros in their chosen field with legions of fans around the globe — and a shared obsession with the beautiful game.
      ⚽ Follow ALL of the latest news and updates from Euro 2020 with our live blog
      Jose Mourinho chatted with James Corden ahead of this weekend’s EurosCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers Ltd
      The TV legend grilled The Special One on everything from his trophies to cricketCredit: Daniel Jones – The Sun
      So who better to quiz The Special One than a London-born boy done good?
      Who wants to know if one day Jose would plump for a job at his beloved West Ham? Jose, 58, is now at Roma after parting company with Spurs.
      Speaking on Zoom, James, 42, got Jose chatting about Harry Kane’s future, the 25-and-a-half trophies he’s won and the advice he’d give to Gareth Southgate.
      The England boss famously missed a penalty at Euro 96, one of several shootout heartaches over the years. But Jose says our “mental wall is broken” after spot-kick joy against Colombia at the 2018 World Cup.

      JAMES CORDEN: How are you, Jose? This is such a thrill, I’m a big fan.
      JOSE MOURINHO: I can’t believe that. You must be a fan of David Moyes.
      JC: Yes, Moyesiah — he’s incredible. So, are you excited for this new chapter?
      JM: I am. I felt a very good connection with the owners. It’s the feeling of working not for them but with them.
      JC: How much of your day is spent thinking about how much you want to improve that squad?
      JM: There is a lot of work to do. Zoom made things easy. I don’t like making phone calls. I like to see people.
      JC: Fans got to see your reaction to lockdown in the Amazon documentary with Tottenham. Was that in your contract?
      Mourinho spoke about Harry Kane’s future, saying he is a ‘very Premier League guy’Credit: Getty
      JM: Yes I was informed about it. I gave them my opinion. It would disturb the work we were doing but it would be a good thing for the club.
      JC: Reading between the lines my feeling was that Mauricio Pochettino did not want those cameras there. Did you know that was an issue?
      JM: No not at all. It was something that was done and it is not even for me to ask why or how.
      The positives were more important. And that it is.
      JC: I feel you’ve always known when something is going to work or not in the long term. Like at Manchester United, you came to Los Angeles and we filmed something for my show. I had a feeling you thought that season would not end well.
      JM: Manchester United was a situation where we won three trophies in the first season. When I met you I wanted more.
      JC: I remember you saying to me, “I have no players” and I was like, “No you have this and this.” You said it wasn’t enough.
      JM: I am very optimistic but I am very realistic. When we did that at Manchester United by winning the Europa League, and the domestic cup, I felt for the next step it would not be enough.
      This season, people were saying, “Great season, you finished second.” I’d say, “We finished second. It’s a bad season.”
      He spoke about Gareth Southgate’s heart-breaking missed penalty at Euro 96Credit: Getty
      Mourinho revealed the advice he’d give the England bossCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      JC: Why is finishing second a bad season?
      JM: I like Manchester United, the fans were amazing with me. And I think it is good for them that another season without trophies is seen as positive.
      But with me the level of expectation coming from the media is completely different.
      JC: But some of that pressure you bring on yourself. In press conferences you’ll say things like, “Three, three!”
      JM: That’s a reaction! I don’t arrive and say three or five. James, if you want to be proactive you can ask me how many trophies I have won in my career — 25 and a half.
      JC: What is the half?
      JM: The half is the final I didn’t play with Tottenham.
      I’ve won 25 and a half trophies…the half is the final I didn’t play with Spurs.
      JC: Were you disappointed you didn’t get to manage?
      JM: Of course. To have a chance to win a trophy with a club that doesn’t have many, that was a dream.
      JC: Did you ever say, “Let me manage the final, win the trophy and I will leave?”
      JM: It is not for me to make that decision.
      Corden grilled Mourinho, aka The Special One, on ZoomCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers
      Corden admits he’s a big fan and says he feels a very good connection with David Moyes
      JC: What advice would you give the new manager?
      JM: I am not going to give any advice. I say goodbye, I wish you luck and I move on.
      JC: Would you not just say, “Try and keep Harry Kane?”
      JM: That’s obvious. He is one of the top strikers in the world.
      JC: Did you like working with Harry?
      JM: I did enjoy it very much. I love his partnership with Son.
      JC: Do you see the ambition in Harry that you have seen in Zlatan, in Ronaldo?
      JM: Yes but when I work with these guys they were winning titles. It is about legacy. Legacy is about medals.
      But who knows? In five weeks Harry could be a European champion.
      JC: I am sure you won’t answer this, but where do you think Harry Kane should play his football next year?
      JM: I think he has to play where he is happy. And I think he is happy in England. He is a very Premier League guy.
      Mourinho has won 25½ trophies in his career, including a final he didn’t play with TottenhamCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers Ltd
      He admits he’s been offered international management jobs at England and PortugalCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers Ltd
      The football legend says he doesn’t know what he’d do without the beautiful gameCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers Ltd
      JC: Let’s talk about the Euros. Are you excited?
      JM: I am always excited about football. We have a break and I feel lost and empty. I don’t know what to do after dinner. I am just zapping zapping zapping with no proper football.
      JC: What do you make of England’s chances?
      JM: They can win it. I only see France has an incredible squad but apart from that I don’t see one team that is better than the others.
      Who knows, in 5 weeks Harry Kane could be a European champion.
      JC: Have you ever been offered international management jobs?
      JM: England when I left Chelsea but I realised it was too early for me. I had Portugal when I was at Real Madrid. It was a crazy offer for a part-time job. It is the kind of job I think I will enjoy later.
      JC: You said you don’t know what to do without football. So what do you do to keep yourself entertained?
      JM: I am a very complicated guy. I am totally absorbed by sport. I will be addicted to the Olympics. I am addicted to F1, I am addicted to tennis. There is one sport that I still don’t understand, cricket.
      When I was working for Sir Bobby Robson, I could not understand how much he loved the game, because I didn’t understand the game.
      Mourinho reckons England can win the Euros, saying ‘I don’t see one team that is better than the others’Credit: The Sun
      JC: Sir Bobby because he was clearly a mentor to you. Do you have anyone you consider yourself a mentor to?
      JM: I am more than a mentor, I am an agent without commission. I get so many jobs from so many friends. People want advice and opinions.
      JC: Did you know about the Super League before us?
      JM: I knew the project was in the kitchen and it would come out.
      JC: Were you surprised by how quickly it fell apart?
      JM: The way people reacted was incredible. I am a football lover. I got emotional about that reaction.
      JC: If you had been at Tottenham or Man Utd, and they said, “This is the Super League, we’re going to enter it”, would you have said, “Guys this is a PR disaster?”
      JM: I don’t think we have any power in any club at this moment. We have power in relation to our opinion. The old-fashioned football manager with lots of power in the club, I think that has disappeared.
      JC: Back to the Euros, from a manager’s point of view, what should Gareth Southgate say to his five?
      JM: You know my record on penalties? I lost two Champions League semi-finals on penalties.
      JC: So what did you say? Then Gareth Southgate can say the opposite?
      JM: When I trust players over my feelings it doesn’t work. For example Chelsea versus Liverpool, one of the players was not on the list. He came to me in the middle of Anfield and he said to me, “Am I the first or fifth?” I said, “You are the sixth or the seventh.”
      He says the best player he’s ever coached was MessiCredit: Reuters
      He said, “I want to go because I will score.” So with that, I thought, “OK.” He took it but he missed.
      I also had the European Super Cup, Chelsea versus Bayern. Again the guy who missed shouldn’t have taken the penalty. The last time this happened I won. It was this season, Tottenham versus Chelsea. And the same thing happened to me. I told the player, “No.”
      England don’t need my advice now. That mental wall is broken. They want it.
      JC: That is a great bit of advice for Gareth Southgate. OK let’s finish up with some quickfire. The best player you never coached?
      JM: Messi.
      JC: The best football game you have been a part of?
      JM: Benfica and Porto. That game for us Portuguese is everything. It is tribal, North versus South.
      JC: Your favourite food?
      JM: I am from a fisherman’s city but I am a meat guy. I like my beef medium well, with amazing chips.
      The old-fashioned football manager with lots of power in the club, I think that has disappeared.
      JC: Your favourite song?
      JM: I wouldn’t say I have a favourite song but I like Bryan Adams, Bruce Springsteen and U2.
      JC: Your favourite place in the world?
      JM: My city Setubal.
      JC: Your favourite thing to do on a day off?
      JM: I don’t have days off. There’s not one day when I can disconnect from football, where I can ignore the telephone.
      JC: And finally, be honest, everything you have achieved in your career, 25-and-a-half cups, do you feel with every move you are getting closer to your dream of becoming the manager of West Ham United?
      JM: It is not my dream.
      JC: If it’s not a dream because it’s just so far out of reach for you I get it, I totally get it.
      Corden casks whether he’s getting closer to achieving his dream of becoming West Ham’s manager
      Unfortunately he shoots Corden down as he says Roma is his futureCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers Ltd

      JM: Maybe, James. I am not a club man. That is clear. I am a guy of many clubs. Roma is my future.
      JC: My admiration for you never stops growing. Thank you for this. It has been a thrill.
      JM: See you in LA, I will go to Coachella.

      IN return for this article, at James’ request, The Sun has made a donation to Magic Breakfast charity, which helps provide breakfasts to school kids. For more information, visit www.magicbreakfast.com. More

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      in Soccer

      Harry Kane will leave Tottenham in CASH-ONLY deal with Spurs chief Daniel Levy not interested in player-exchange offers

      by

      DANIEL LEVY will demand a cash-only deal for star striker Harry Kane.The Tottenham chairman wants at least £150million for his England captain — if he is prepared to let him leave at all, that is.
      Daniel Levy is out to land £150million in cash if he has to sell Harry Kane – and will not accept player-exchange offers for his star manCredit: PA
      But he is definitely not interested in ‘cast-offs’ as part of a player-exchange deal for the 27-year-old.
      Levy has a reputation for playing hardball in the transfer market.
      And having already been left deeply upset by Kane’s bid to get away, Levy will dig his heels in to get what he wants.
      SunSport revealed Manchester City are prepared to offer Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus plus £60m to get a deal over the line.
      Levy knows his squad needs major reconstruction after last season’s slump left them stranded in the Europa Conference League.
      Cash would be king, especially with clubs hit hard by financial losses due to coronavirus.
      While Sterling and Jesus may be title winners, accepting City’s deal would give Spurs less cash to bring in their own choice of players.
      Levy knows Sterling is on £300,000-a-week at the Etihad — too much for Tottenham.
      BETTING SPECIAL – GET ENGLAND TO WIN EURO 2020 AND HARRY KANE TO BE TOP SCORER AT 18/1

      He also feels neither player would fancy dropping out of the Champions League and into the third tier of European competition.
      Both Manchester clubs and Chelsea have spoken to Kane’s representatives to stake their claim for a man who has scored 221 Spurs goals, along with 34 for England.
      Negotiations have not yet begun with Levy, whose stance is still that he wants Kane to see out the last three years of his deal.
      But if he is prepared to let Kane go, only money will talk.
      He will remember how it all went wrong when he got £86m for Gareth Bale from Real Madrid seven years ago.
      It was then a world record fee — and certain of the deal going through before Bale actually left, Spurs went out and bought seven players.
      Erik Lamela at £30m, Roberto Soldado for £26m and Christian Eriksen at £11.5m were three of the players who totalled £108m as Levy tried to build a new team.
      The plan backfired spectacularly though.
      Kane may try to convince Levy to let him leave Spurs this summerCredit: PA

      Boss Andre Villas-Boas was sacked before Christmas and Spurs ultimately finished the season in sixth.
      The club debt was again highlighted yesterday by lifelong fan Lord Triesman.
      He said: “Spurs have a gross debt last reported in February of £1.177bn, the biggest in Europe, a glorious new stadium and an utterly inconsistent team to play in it.
      “The business is essentially now a real-estate developer.”
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      Harry Kane will not make Tottenham transfer exit during Euro 2020 as England boss Gareth Southgate expects moves after More