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      England facing fixtures nightmare as shock Greece loss could have knock on effect for World Cup 2026 qualifiers

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      ENGLAND could be forced to feature in a Nations League play-off in March.And that would mean the Three Lions’ World Cup qualifiers wouldn’t start until June.England will face fixture congestion if they fail to win their Nations League groupInterim boss Lee Carsley and assistant Ashley Cole had a night to forget at WembleyThe draw for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers will be staged in Zurich in December.If England finish top of the League B group, they are set to begin their campaign for the World Cup in March.But if England fail to automatically qualify, they’ll be forced to play a Nations League play-off in March instead.If Lee Carsley’s men finish second in the Nations League — and the 2-1 loss to Greece means this is possible — they will have a promotion play-off against a third-placed League A side.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSGreece sit three points above England at the top of the group.The Three Lions are set to be in a five-team World Cup group so their eight qualifying games could be pushed back.Interim head boss Carsley was given one main challenge when accepting his current role with England – to help the Three Lions earn promotion back to the top tier of the Nations League.But after the Greece defeat, Carsley all but confirmed that he doesn’t want the permanent job anyway.Most read in FootballThe damning stats that underline England horror showGreece were the lowest ranked side to beat England in a competitive match in 19 years (since Northern Ireland ranked 116th in September 2005.The away side were the lowest ranked side to ever beat England on home soil.It was the first time Greece had never beaten England in their history (10 attempts).Greece had never scored a goal at Wembley before tonight (the famous 2-2 with Becks free kick was at Old Trafford)Vangelis Pavlidis’ strikes were his first since June 2022 vs Cyprus.Jude Bellingham’s 87th-minute equaliser was England’s first shot on  target since the third minute (also Bellingham).FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCountries that win their Nations League group could earn a place in the qualifying play-offs for the 2026 World Cup, should they fail to qualify for the competition by normal means.But Carsley might have failed his audition after fielding an England team with NO recognised No.9 for the first time in the modern era.’Freedom is the new garlic bread,’ fumes Roy Keane as he blasts Lee Carsley’s England for forgetting the basicsWhat’s more, he admitted that they’d only worked on his rogue striker-less formation for 20 MINUTES in training.And the defeat could’ve been by four or five more – with the Greeks having THREE goals disallowed in their first ever win at Wembley.England can’t really afford more failed experiments like Carsley’s against Greece with a Pot 1 World Cup 2026 qualifying spot almost certain.England’s 12 shots only added up to 0.86 expected goals (xG), with Bellingham’s 87th-minute equaliser their only shot on target in the second half.Should Carsley win all three of his remaining group matches, taking place on Sunday and in another double header next month, England would be guaranteed promotion, should Greece drop points against either the Republic of Ireland or Finland.Next up for the Three Lions is a meeting with Finland, who sit bottom of Group B2 after three games.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut England swallowed plenty of chances against Finland last month -before Harry Kane’s late double saw them win 2-0 at Wembley.Reports in Germany on Friday evening suggested the England are in talks with Thomas Tuchel over a permanent job as Three Lions boss.England player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      Bukayo Saka injury update with Arsenal star set to miss England’s Nations League clash with Finland

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      BUKAYO SAKA is expected to miss England’s Nations League clash on Sunday with Finland through injury.The Arsenal star hobbled off six minutes into the second half of Thursday’s 2-1 home defeat to Greece, holding the back of his right leg as he left the pitch.Bukayo Saka limped off during England’s 2-1 defeat against GreeceCredit: PAThe Arsenal star is now a doubt for the Three Lions next game against FinlandCredit: RexHe will undergo a scan but the knock – believed to be a strain – is not thought to be serious.So while he is a major doubt for the match in Helsinki, his club will be hopeful he will be available for selection for their Premier League trip to Bournemouth next Saturday.Interim England chief Lee Carsley confirmed after the loss to Greece that Saka had been withdrawn due to feeling some discomfort in the build-up to Greece’s first goal.The 50-year-old said: “He’s being assessed.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“Obviously in the build-up to the first goal, you could see he felt something in his leg.”Carsley will give an update on Saka’s fitness tomorrow in his pre-match press conference previewing the Finland game.Saka, 23, has been in hot form for his club.He netted in both their 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain and 3-1 victory over Southampton earlier this month.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSaka was replaced by Noni Madueke in the match last night.Jude Bellingham looked to have spared England’s blushes with a late goal, but that was undone when some more shoddy defending allowed Vangelis Pavlidis to net his second of the night in injury time.Bukayo Saka declares ‘this is Arsenal’s year’ and they will win Premier League titleEngland player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      George Baldock: Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer caught on live TV after shock win over England

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      GREECE ace Lazaros Rota paid a touching tribute to his late great team-mate George Baldock after a famous victory over England.Baldock was found dead in his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night when he drowned in his swimming pool at the age of 31 plunging the football community into mourning.Greece right-back Lazaros Rota dedicated the win over England to George BaldockBaldock played ahead of Rota at right-back in the Greek national teamCredit: RexA devastated Greek national team found the strength to put on a heroic performance and snatch an emotional 2-1 win in London, which they dedicated to their team-mate and his family.Benfica star Vangelis Pavlidis commemorated the Sheffield United legend by raising his black armband in the air and pointing to the heavens after scoring both of his goals.And after the match Ivan Jovanovic’s men lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that led to many breaking down in tears.That was when right-back Rota, 27, who played behind Baldock in Greece’s pecking order, pointed at the ITV camera and dedicated the win to his former team-mate.Read More on FootballThe AEK Athens ace cried: “Georgie, for you.”This was Greece’s first ever win over England and the team became the first ever Greek side to win at Wembley.That was after the visitors’ captain Tasos Bakasetas issued a spine-tingling pre-match speech urging his team-mates to “sacrifice” themselves on the pitch for Baldock.The full-back was so passionate that he often risked his physical well-being on the pitch, such as against France last year in Paris where he played with a swollen ankle and still silenced Kylian Mbappe.Most read in FootballThere were no celebrations from the Greek national team, who were still overwhelmed by the horrific news, after the game.Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England Instead, Bakasetas and Pavlidis opted to use that time to reflect on their friend and his family.Baldock was found dead in the swimming pool of his Greek apartment on Wednesday evening.His family has now confirmed his cause of death as drowning in his swimming pool.They have released a touching statement saying: “We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George.Ex-Sheffield United full-back Baldock was supposed to fly back to the UK on Thursday to celebrate his son Brody’s birthday.Baldock moved to Greece after joining Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer.His heartbroken fiancee Annabel Dignam hailed him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”His fiancee Annabel Dignam said her ‘world will never be the same’Credit: Facebook/ Annabel DignamGeorge Baldock waves to fans at Bramall Lane on May 19, 2024Credit: GettyA minute’s silence was held in his memory at Wembley before England and Greece’s Nations League clashCredit: ReutersCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death.Baldock played for his club side on Sunday during a 0-0 draw with fierce rivals Olympiacos.He played 75 minutes before being subbed off.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club confirmed he last trained with them on Wednesday before driving home to his €15,000-a-month apartment.England and Greece stars held a minute’s silence ahead of their Nations League clash.Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More

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      Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England

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      GREECE captain Tasos Bakasetas delivered a spine-tingling speech dedicated to the late George Baldock that inspired his team-mates to victory against England before stepping out at Wembley.Baldock was found dead at his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night at the age of 31 plunging the English and Greek football community into mourning.Greece captain Tasos Bakasetas delivered a spine-tingling pre-match speech before the win over EnglandCredit: instagramBakasetas inspired his Greece team-mates to fight for George Baldock after his tragic deathCredit: EPAGreece dedicated their famous win over England to Baldock after the whistleCredit: AlamyThe former Sheffield United star’s team-mates were in London when the news broke and were left devastated ahead of Thursday’s crunch Nations League clash with the Three Lions.However, Bakasetas, 31, took it upon himself to lift his team-mates’ spirits with a powerful pre-match speech in the dressing room.The Panathinaikos star, who also played with Baldock for the Athenian club, described the Buckingham-born ace as an “example” that would even sacrifice his physical well-being for the team. The playmaker then went on to order his team-mates to return the favour by stepping onto England’s hallowed Wembley turf and “sacrificing” themselves.Read More on FootballBakasetas stated: “We know very well what kind of team we are because we earned our way.”We have no one to fear and we should show it from the first minute. We know the game’s importance. Many of us know who George is and what kind of a man he was.”George was always an example for this team. Because many times he left his soul on the pitch. He prioritised the team above all else and he even sacrificed his physical wellbeing.”And tonight in this game he will be our example. Each and everyone of us will sacrifice ourselves to honour him exactly as he deserves. Let’s all be ready. Let’s go!” Most read in FootballGreece went on to produce an incredible performance as they beat England for the first time ever and picked up their first ever victory at Wembley.Vangelis Pavlidis scored a stunning brace to break Three Lions hearts and deliver a hammer blow to interim boss Lee Carsley’s hopes of replacing Gareth Southgate full-time.England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31Pavlidis and his team-mates dedicated both goals to Baldock as they lifted their black armbands and pointed to the heavens.However, there was no celebration at full-time, instead the visitors lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that saw many break down in tears.Pavlidis refused to talk about the game in his post-match interview and instead paid tribute to the ex-MK Dons ace.The Benfica star said: “It was a very peculiar day. Our thoughts are with George. The game was not postponed, we are here and [we are] professionals, we played, we gave our souls for him. “[These are] Very difficult times, it was a peculiar match because of that happened with George. It’s not a day to talk about football, he was part of our team and all I can say is he’s going to be sorely missed, we wish strength to his family.”The whole day was silent, even now, we can’t say much. A picture is worth a thousand words, there are no words.”Paying tribute to BaldockBakasetas, who was reduced to tears at full-time, echoed is team-mate’s statement as he paid homage to Baldock’s character and professionalism.The ex-Trabzonspor star even shared two anecdotal stories that showed how dedicated the defender was to the national team.Bakasetas said: “I’m very proud to have these team-mates. We want to dedicate this game to George and his family This way we will try and give them some strength.”It’s a game that shouldn’t have happened in my opinion. It’s not a day we can talk more about football. George today was our guide. He always put the team above all else.”In France last summer he played with an ankle banged up and still delivered for the team.”And against Georgia [in the final of the Euro 2024 play-off qualifying round] he was hurt and knew he would get injured but fought with doctors so that he can play and left it all on the pitch.”We thank him for everything. We wish strength to his family.”Fiancee’s tributeBaldock’s fiancee released a statement last night hailing him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”Baldock was found in the pool by his landlord, who jumped over the fence.Emergency crews pulled the footballer from the water, but were unable to resuscitate him.Forensic scientists who conducted the autopsy on Baldock at Athens’ University Hospital on Thursday said he was dead for five hours before he was discovered.READ MORE SUN STORIESCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death. More

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      England fans beg Lee Carsley to make stunning change to starting XI by DROPPING 71-cap star who has ‘had his day’

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      ENGLAND fans are urging interim boss Lee Carsley to drop one of the Three Lions’ most experienced players following a dismal individual display.Carsley, 50, lost for the first time as national team coach on Thursday night as Greece claimed a historic 2-1 win at Wembley.Lee Carsley suffered his first defeat as England boss on Thursday nightCredit: RexThe visitors opened England up on numerous occasions and had the ball in the back of the net FIVE times, only for three of them to be ruled out.One goal was disallowed for offside after England keeper Jordan Pickford failed to punch the ball away and Greece were able to capitalise.Fortunately for the Everton shot-stopper, the flag saved his blushes.That came moments after Levi Colwill had bailed him out of jail.READ MORE ON ENGLANDPickford was caught in possession outside his box, before Chelsea man Colwill scampered back to hook the ball off the line.It was an error-strewn performance from England’s No1 – who was earning his 71st cap.And some England fans have called for him to be dropped after eight years as the country’s first-choice.One said: “Wtf was Pickford doing all the way up there? He shouldn’t be starting for England ever. Been saying this all year. Too complacent.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSJordan Pickford made several errors during the lossCredit: RexAnother added: “England need another goal keeper.. Pickford time is over.”A third replied: “Time to give Nick Pope a go, Pickford has had his day, was awful in Euro final, supposed to be playing from the back but he kept punting it up front, when only Kane up front. Too many unforced errors for my liking.”Lee Carsley’s slip of the tongue after Greece nightmare hints he wants England U21s job back and not replace SouthgateWhile a fourth responded: “Sean Dyche was right about Pickford….he’s been awful!! Nick Pope is better and should start ahead of him!!”And a fifth said: “I know people have liked Pickford for a while but never been a massive fan! Personally think Nick Pope is better.”Pickford made his England debut in 2017 and was Gareth Southgate’s choice in between the sticks in four successive major tournaments.Since joining Everton seven years ago, he has also racked up 287 appearances – missing just 11 Premier League games for the club.England’s next game comes away at Finland on Sunday, with Pope and Dean Henderson in the squad as Carsley’s back-up keepers.England player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      Lee Carsley may have gambled away England job as damning stats underline how bad Greece horror show really was

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      LEE CARSLEY may have lost his chance of landing the England job on a full-time basis after the shock defeat to Greece.The Three Lions were humbled 2-1 as they were defeated at Wembley in the Nations League.Lee Carsley watched on as England were beaten by GreeceCredit: RexThey were the lowest-ranked side to ever beat the Three Lions on home soilCredit: GettyVangelis Pavlidis fired in the winning goalCredit: GettyJude Bellingham had looked to have spared England’s blushes as his 87th-minute goal cancelled out Vangelis Pavlidis’s earlier goal.However, the Greek striker struck again in the 94th minute to hand the visitors an emotional victory following the tragic death of George Baldock.Many had believed that Carsley was the man to take England forward after the impressive wins over Finland and the Republic of Ireland in his first two matches of his interim reign.However, the underlining stats made during the loss to Greece may have wrecked his chances.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLGreece’s win meant they set the record to become the lowest-ranked side, 48th, to beat England on home soil.The previous record was set when North Ireland beat England 1-0 in a World Cup qualifier back in September 2005.They are also the lowest-ranked side to beat the Three Lions in a competitive match in 19 years.It was also the first time England had ever lost to Greece and the first goals scored by the nation at Wembley.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSCarsley opted to play a very attacking side with the likes of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon all starting.The team set up in a false nine due to the absence of Harry Kane but the glut of attacking talent failed to shine.Lee Carsley’s slip of the tongue after Greece nightmare hints he wants England U21s job back and not replace SouthgateEngland’s shocking stats against GreeceHere are the shocking that stats that were set in England’s defeat to Greece…- Lowest ranked side to beat England in a competitive match in 19 years.- The lowest-ranked side ever beat England on home soil.- Greece had never beaten England in their history.- Greece had never scored a goal at Wembley before.- Pavlidis’ strikes were his first since June 2022 vs Cyprus.- Bellingham’s 87th-minute equaliser was England’s first shot on target since the third minute (also Bellingham).Jude Bellingham managed both of England’s shots on targetCredit: GettyBellingham’s goal was England’s first shot on target since his effort in the 87th minute.Defensively, the Three Lions allowed Pavlidis to score his first international goals since June 2022 when he netted in the 3-0 win over Cyprus.After the match, Carsley admitted that the tactics had only been practised the bold style for 20 minutes.He also put doubt on his willingness to be named the permenant manager of England.He said: “I was surprised after the last camp [to hear], ‘The job’s mine, it’s mine to lose.'”My remit is I am doing three camps and then hopefully going back to the Under-21s.”After being pressed as to why he’s hopeful of returning to his normal job, Carsley added: “I said at the start that I wouldn’t rule myself in or out.”And that’s still the case. I’m more than comfortable in my position where I am.”The remit was clear. I’m comfortable and confident with that.“After the first camp, I definitely didn’t get too excited or believe too much.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’m very aware that this job is one of the best in the world in terms of you’ve actually got a chance of winning.”Obviously, I’m talking about that after a loss but in terms of a major competition – and that’s still the case.”England player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      Poland vs Portugal: Get £50 in free bets for Nations League clash with Betfred

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      PORTUGAL eye nine points from three games to start the Nations League when they travel to Poland in League A1.And brand new Betfred customers can claim a smashing £50 in free bets when they sign-up and stake a tenner on the international showdown.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles herePoland vs Portugal: Get £50 free bets HERE*How to claim..Betfred welcome offerVisit the Betfred website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Deposit £10 using a Debit CardPlace your first bet of £10 or more on any qualifying Sportsbook markets, at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that bet has settled, Betfred will credit your account with £50 in Free BetsBetfred: Get your £50 in free bets – Claim here*Poland vs Portugal: Get £50 free bets HERE*New to Betfred? Then you can claim this incredible offer.Simply visit the Betfred website using this link HERE* and register a new account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Then you just need to deposit and stake £10 on any football market at odds of Evens or greater.When that first bet has settled — win or lose — Betfred will credit your account with the following free bets;3 x £10 to use on any Sportsbook Markets2 x £10 to use on Accumulators (4+ selections)FREE BET SIGN UP DEALS FOR FOOTBALLRemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply. More

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      Lee Carsley says ‘hopefully I’ll be going back to the U21s’ as he casts major doubt over England manager job

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      LEE CARSLEY has all but confirmed he DOESN’T want the England job on a permanent basis.The 50-year-old has been in temporary charge of the Three Lions since Gareth Southgate quit the role in July following a second successive Euros final defeat.Gareth Southgate resigned from his role as England manager after their Euro 2024 final defeat to SpainCredit: PAUnder-21s boss Lee Carsley was named as Southgate’s temporary successorCredit: PAThe 50-year-old oversaw a shock defeat to Greece on Thursday nightCredit: REXCarsley has admitted he’s hopeful of returning to his Under-21s gigCredit: REXThe FA are currently searching for a permanent successor for Southgate, which Carsley is potentially in line to be.But he’s seemingly ruled himself OUT OF THE RUNNING just hours after The Three Lions’ shock 2-1 defeat to Greece at Wembley on Thursday by revealing he wants to return to his Under-21s gig.He said: “I was surprised after the last camp [to hear], ‘The job’s mine, it’s mine to lose.'”My remit is I am doing three camps and then hopefully going back to the Under-21s.”READ MORE ON ENGLANDAfter being pressed as to why he’s hopeful of returning to his normal job, Carsley added: “I said at the start that I wouldn’t rule myself in or out.”And that’s still the case. I’m more than comfortable in my position where I am.”The remit was clear. I’m comfortable and confident with that.“After the first camp, I definitely didn’t get too excited or believe too much.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLee 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?“I’m very aware that this job is one of the best in the world in terms of you’ve actually got a chance of winning.”Obviously, I’m talking about that after a loss but in terms of a major competition – and that’s still the case.”Lee Carsley appears to admit staggeringly short amount of time England practised bold new tactic before Greece shockerCarsley, who has overseen wins over the Republic of Ireland and Finland, claimed it was “an honour” to be given the reigns on a temporary basis following his appointment.But when flat out asked if he wants the job permanently, he said: “Nothing’s changed in what I said in the first press conference.“I think it’s a fantastic job. I’m lucky that I’ve got a good job as it is in terms of the 21s.“But, like I say, after the first camp when we won two games and had two really good performances, my ambitions didn’t change.“I think it’s important that I give it everything I’ve got for the next three games.“I’m really happy and comfortable in terms of the communication I have with my bosses, so nothing’s changed in that respect.”Lee Carsley has shouldered the blame for England’s 2-1 defeat to GreeceCredit: ALAMYA brace from Vangelis Pavlidis condemned the Three Lions to a shock defeat in their third Nations League Group F match.Carsley said of the loss: “It was a challenging night for us and we were second best.”It’s disappointing. We experimented and it didn’t come off.READ MORE SUN STORIES”You have to have the courage to try things, but I’m happy to take the blame for this because it was my idea.”Carsley and his troops will look to get back to winning ways on Sunday afternoon when they travel to Helsinki to play Finland. More