UEFA Nations League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal suffer major injury blow as Bukayo Saka limps off for England just minutes into second half against Greece

      by

      ARSENAL suffered a major blow as Bukayo Saka was forced off with injury just six minutes into the second half of England’s clash with Greece this evening.After feeling an issue, the winger limped off and was replaced by Noni Madueke.Bukayo Saka was forced off with an injuryCredit: GettyThe Arsenal star went down after Greece’s opening goalCredit: GettyAnthony Gordon consoles his Three Lions team-mateCredit: GettyPrior to Saka being replaced, Greece had just taken the lead via Vangelis Pavlidis.It appeared that the Arsenal talisman, 23, sustained his injury in the build-up to Greece’s goal.As Greek stars celebrated going in front, Saka sat down on the turf.He was subsequently treated by physios, before limping off.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnthony Gordon looked to console his Three Lions team-mate as he made his way off for Madueke.Saka was one of several attacking players included in caretaker boss Lee Carsley’s starting line-up.Also in the XI were Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden and Gordon – with Carsley opting not to start a traditional No9.Prior to half-time, Saka received a yellow card.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSaka was replaced by Noni Madueke in the 51st minuteCredit: ITVThe Arsenal star was shown a yellow card in the first halfCredit: RexThe Gunners winger committed a cynical foul as Greece looked to counter, and was punished accordingly.Saka isn’t the first Arsenal player to suffer an injury on international duty this season.Ecstatic Arsenal fans say ‘my captain is BACK’ as Martin Odegaard shares workout video in huge boost following injuryLast month, Gunners skipper Martin Odegaard went off in tears after sustaining an ankle issue while playing for Norway against Austria.He has since missed games against Tottenham, Manchester City, Leicester and Southampton – as well as Champions League match-ups with Atalanta and Paris Saint-Germain.Odegaard, 25, recently shared footage of himself stepping up his recovery.But his return date is not yet known.Martin Odegaard has been attempting to step up his recoveryCredit: Instagram @odegaard.98 More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Lee Carsley unleashes tactic never seen before in England history vs Greece as fans say ‘Southgate would never’

      by

      LEE CARSLEY unleashed a never-before seen tactic during England’s match against Greece.The Three Lions faced off against Greece at Wembley in the Uefa Nations League.Lee Carsley went for a bold new look tactic for England vs GreeceCredit: AlamyThe Three Lions played with a set of attacking midfielders rather than a recognised strikerRoy Keane said Ollie Watkins will have been left fuming at the decisionCredit: AFPHowever, with captain Harry Kane rested as a precaution following a knock he received with Bayern Munich, Carsley opted to go bold with his selection.Rather than simply replace Kane with one of Ollie Watkins or Dominic Solanke in the line-up, Carsley went for a team filled with talented attacking midfielders.Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer and Phil Foden were asked to be the team’s main attacking force down the middle, while Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon provided the width.And in a shock twist, ITV’s chief statistician, “King Joel”, could not find another example where England had played without a recognised centre-forward.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRoy Keane and Ian Wright were baffled by the exclusion of Aston Villa ace Watkins, with Keane saying “he will be fuming”.Wright added he was “disappointed for Ollie Watkins”, given it would have been a strong chance for him to try and stake a claim to start.Taking to social media, fans had a mixed reaction to the bold new tactic.One user said: “Exciting, innovative, Barcelona did something similar when [Cesc] Fabregas tended to be their furthest man forward.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA second said: “Agree, Watkins won’t be happy. Foden barely played this season, odd move by Carsley.”A third said: “Feel this is another manager sacrificing balance just to accommodate players it can be OK if we bench players no matter who they play for.”Lee Carsley welcomes back Cole Palmer to the England team Another said: “A team packed full of wingers and No10s but no striker. That could be a fun watch.”A fifth added: “We’ve gone from one clown to another it seems! No striker in the 11 but two sitting on the bench.”A sixth said: “All out attack. [Gareth] Southgate would never.”However, the experiment backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double saw Carsley’s side fall to a 2-1 defeat.A tribute was also paid to the late George Baldock, who died at the age of 31 earlier this week. More

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31

      by

      ENGLAND and Greece stars have come together in an emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to the late George Baldock.The former Sheffield United star, 31, died earlier this week after being found to have drowned in his swimming pool at his home in Athens.Former Premier League star George Baldock died at the age of 31 earlier this weekCredit: RexEngoland and Greece stars paid tribute to the defenderGreece requested both teams wear black armband to commemorate his tragic deathGreece stars held up a shirt of Baldock before the matchCredit: AFPBaldock was a 12-time Greek internationalCredit: APMany England stars had played against Baldock in Premier LeagueDean Henderson had played alongside him at Bramall LaneGreek media report Baldock was found by the owner of the property after his concerned wife raised the alarm when she was unable to contact him.He was later found dead, with an initial autopsy confirming he had drowned.Baldock played against and alongside some of the England stars during his time at Sheffield United.Dean Henderson, named on the bench for the Three Lions tonight, starred alongside Baldock at Bramall Lane.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe had been a Blades star from 2017 before leaving for Athens outfit Panathinaikos this summer.England and Greece stars held a minutes silence ahead of their Nations League clash tonight.Pundits on ITV paid tribute Baldock ahead of the game on live TV.Ian Wright said: “Terrible news, shocking news. You cannot help but think about his friends and family, I spoke to Karl Robinson [former MK Dons manager] last night who was devastated.Most read in Football”He was hard-working and strong minded, You always thought, the way he applied himself, he was always going to get to where he wanted to go in the Premier League.”I’m very sorry and all my condolences go to his family.”George Baldock’s heartbreaking summer farewell message to Sheffield Utd fans re-emerges after star found dead aged 31The Arsenal and England legend worked alongside Baldock during a coaching stint MK Dons, where the British-born Greece international graduated through the academy.Manchester United and Republic of Ireland icon Roy Keane added: “They will be shocked. I remember him at Sheffield United. He had huge energy and was always up for a battle. “The players will react, be professional and go and put on a performance for him.”Baldock’s family are said to have been left “shocked” by the tragic news.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.A family statement released on Wednesday night said: “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. “As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time.”Greece asked for permission from Uefa for both teams to wear black armbands for the Wembley clash.Baldock has last played for Greece in March, and had only starred for his club last Sunday.READ MORE SUN STORIESTribute was also paid to Lord Herman Ouseley, who died last week at the age of 79. He was a key figure in battling racism in football with the foundation of Kick It Out.Roy Keane and Ian Wright also paid tribute to BaldockCredit: AlamyA tribute to Lord Herman Ouseley following his tragic death at the age of 79Credit: PA More

    • 275 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Unique feature of Lee Carsley’s England squad not seen for 48 years is more egg on the face of Erik ten Hag

      by

      LEE CARSLEY is already putting his stamp on the England set-up with his latest squad possessing a unique feat not seen in 48 years.The Three Lions caretaker boss recently named his second squad since taking the reins from Gareth Southgate.Lee Carsley has named his latest England sideCredit: GettyErik ten Hag’s side have had a shocking start to the seasonCredit: GettyCarsley’s tenure began with comfortable 2-0 wins over the Republic of Ireland and Finland last month.This week he takes on Greece at Wembley before facing Finland again on Sunday.And for the first time since 1976, England will go into those games with no Manchester United players in their squad.For nearly half a century, at least one Man Utd star has been involved in the England set-up.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFor much of that time there have been several, particularly in the 1990s era of David Beckham, Gary Neville, Phil Neville, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt.In recent years, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford have all been regular features.While homegrown hero Kobbie Mainoo played at Euro 2024.None of them, however, are available to Carsley against Greece tonight.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMainoo, 19, was initially named in the squad – before pulling out with injury.Maguire, meanwhile, has also suffered with a recent injury, coming off at half time against Aston Villa last weekend.Lee Carsley welcomes back Cole Palmer to the England team Forward Rashford was available to Carsley but was again not called up.Having missed out on Euro 2024, Rashford has not played in any of England’s last 12 games dating back to March.Youth development has always been a key hallmark of Man Utd’s success.In fact, they possess the astonishing record of having named at least one academy graduate in their matchday squad for the last 86 years, spanning more than 4,000 matches.Ironically, two Man Utd academy graduates have been named on Carsley’s bench for tonight’s game against Greece – with neither still members of Erik ten Hag’s squad.Angel Gomes, who earned his first caps last month, left United in 2020 and has since excelled in France with Lille.Dean Henderson, meanwhile, is England’s back-up goalkeeper this evening having earned No1 status at Crystal Palace.Angel Gomes is on the bench for England at Wembley tonightCredit: Getty More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      George Baldock: Greek PFA slam Uefa in damning statement for refusing to postpone England game after star’s tragic death

      by

      ENGLAND’S match against Greece will go ahead despite Premier League and EFL hero George Baldock’s tragic death.Baldock was found dead at the age of 31 in his home in Athens on Wednesday night, plunging the entire Greek football community into mourning.Greece’s PFA lambasted Uefa’s decision not to postpone the match with England after George Baldock’s deathCredit: APSheffield United legend Baldock was found dead in his home at the age of 31Credit: GettyThe Greek football association [EPO] held talks with Uefa in their bid to reschedule the fixture after their beloved player’s shock passing.However, the football governing body refused to postpone tonight’s Nations League clash due to scheduling conflicts.That led to a furious reaction from Greece’s professional footballers’ association, the Panhellenic Association of Paid [Male] Footballers [and Female] Footballers [PSAPP], who lambasted Uefa.The association didn’t hold back on their criticism with a damning post on social media berating football bosses for disregarding the game’s “human” aspect.Read More on FootballThey even described Uefa’s reasoning behind their decision as a “pretext”.The union also took aim at the “inhumane” schedule, which bloated after the introduction of the controversially repackaged Club World Cup.The 32-team tournament takes place this summer in the US and sparked global outrage, especially from players who even hinted at a strike.PSAPP posted on Facebook: “The game of our National team against England will take place as scheduled despite the Greek federation’s attempt to postpone it, with the pretext of not being able to find an alternative date in an already inhumane – in terms of work – calendar. Most read in Football”Once again those who make the decisions did not have time to think about our internationals. “The need to finally understand that the person should always be placed above all else.”Greece boss Poyet reveals Sheff Utd ace Baldock played through ‘unimaginable’ injury when he silenced France’s MbappeGeorge Baldock career statsGeorge Baldock has tragically died aged 312009-2017 – MK Dons 125 games (2 goals)2011 – Tamworth (loan) 3 (0)2012 – IBV (loan) 18 (1)2012 – Tamworth (loan) 15 (1)2015-16 – Oxford United (loan) 47 (3)2017-2024 – Sheffield United 219 (6)2024 – Panathinaikos 4 (0)Uefa confirmed that both sets of players will wear black armbands and there will be a minute’s silence at Wembley.The same is set to take place at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium on Sunday when Greece host the Republic of Ireland.Buckingham-born Baldock switched to Greece in 2022 following a series of stunning performances with Sheffield United, whom he helped achieve two Premier League promotions.The ex-MK Dons star, who qualified through his Greek grandmother, quickly became Ethniki’s starting right-back and earned immense praise after picking up his first caps.The full-back amassed a staggering 125 appearances during an eight-year stint with MK Dons and a whopping 219 with Sheffield United.After seven years with the Blades, the Greece international moved to Panathinaikos last summer, where he played four times.The defender’s last ever game saw him competing against eternal rivals Olympiacos on Sunday at the Olympic Stadium where he helped his team pick up a brave goalless draw.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

    • 200 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Scotland match stopped for FIFTEEN MINUTES as ambulance forced to drive to pitch after horror injury

      by

      SCOTLAND under-19’s friendly clash with Hungary was delayed for more than FIFTEEN MINUTES.That’s after one of Hungary’s players sustained a horror injury and required lengthy treatment on the park.A loose ball led to a tough tackleCredit: YOUTUBE/SCOTLAND NATIONAL TEAMThe Hungary player was left writhing in agonyCredit: YOUTUBE/SCOTLAND NATIONAL TEAMMedics rushed on as teammates looked on concernedCredit: YOUTUBE/SCOTLAND NATIONAL TEAMA stretcher was called forCredit: YOUTUBE/SCOTLAND NATIONAL TEAMAn ambulance drove right to the side of the pitchCredit: YOUTUBE/SCOTLAND NATIONAL TEAMThe Hungary player was rushed off of the parkCredit: YOUTUBE/SCOTLAND NATIONAL TEAMIt’s the first of two back-to-back matches with the Hungarians for Neil Macfarlane’s under-19 side.The games will warm the Scots up for their European Championship qualifier with Wales next month.Scotland struck early with Aberdeen kid Alfie Bavidge, who’s on loan at Ayr, opening the scoring nine minutes in.But Hungary quickly levelled through Matyas Vidnyanszky five minutes later.That’s how the scoreline remained when horror scenes unfolded in the 50th minute of the match.Torino’s Tamas Galantai received possession in a defensive area and was immediately under pressure.Galantai let the ball run across him to escape the attentions of one player, with Gabriel Forsyth bearing down from where the ball was heading.The Scotland midfielder then came charging in with a full blooded challenge.Most read in FootballThe Norwich midfielder got a huge touch on the ball but his momentum took him crashing into Galantai at full speed.The Hungary player immediately writhed around in agony as the referee raced in to brandish a yellow card to Forsyth.Steve Clarke is dealing with injury chaos for Scotland’s return to Nations League action as Bill Leckie and Roger Hannah ask if it’s time toGalantai’s concerned teammates immediately called for medical assistance, with some looking visibly shaken with their heads in their hands.After the Hungary medical team raced onto the park, the Hungary players formed a circle around Galantai.A stretcher was immediately brought on and Galantai was given lengthy treatment on the pitch.After a ten-minute delay, an ambulance drove to the side of the pitch with blue lights flashing.The stricken player was then carefully lifted onto a stretcher and taken to the ambulance.Play resumed following a FIFTEEN MINUTE delay with the ambulance STILL by the side of the pitch.18 minutes after the injury, the ambulance left the University of Debrecen Stadium.The game itself looked destined for a draw until Celtic’s Mitchel Frame struck an 89th minute winner.READ MORE SUN STORIESOur New YouTube ChannelSubscribe to our new Scottish Sun Sport YouTube channel for all the latest football news, views and amazing moments.We’ve got every major development covered from Celtic, Rangers, Hearts, Hibs, Aberdeen and the rest of the Scottish Premiership.Plus we have TWO brilliant new podcasts to watch every week…MONDAYGo Ballistic with Roger Hannah and special guest Kris Boyd will dissect all the weekend action and deliver their no-holds-barred reaction.WEDNESDAYRobert Grieve and Bill Leckie chew over the tastiest topics in Scottish football and offer their unique takes in their Coffee Club.FRIDAYGo Ballistic is back with Roger Hannah and top tipster Jim Delahunt looking ahead to the weekend games and analysing the biggest talking points.Subscribe now and don’t miss a thing. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

    • 100 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Why isn’t Harry Kane starting for England tonight?

      by

      HARRY KANE has been on fire for the Three Lions of late, scoring a brace against Finland last time out.But the England captain and talisman will not be starting against Greece when the match kicks off at 7.45 pm on October 10 — here we take a look at why.Harry Kane went down in the 72nd minute during Bayern’s 3-3 draw with FrankfurtCredit: GettyThe England skipper requred treatment and was replaced by Mathys TelCredit: GettyWhy isn’t Harry Kane starting against Greece?Harry Kane will not be starting the match as a precaution because of a minor knock he picked up while playing in the Bundesliga.He sustained the injury during Bayern Munich’s 3-3 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday, October 6, 2024.The Three Lions’ skipper needed 72nd-minute treatment and was replaced by Mathys Tel — just days ahead of two Nations League ties.This came came after Kane hurt his ankle late in a 1-1 home draw with Bayern Leverkusen the week before.read more on harry kaneThe injury prevented him from training with Lee Carsley’s England squad in the run-up to the Greece game, leading to his exclusion from the starting lineup for the Nations League match.The exact nature of the injury has not been reported.What Lee Carsley said about KaneInterim England manager Lee Carsley is taking a cautious approach with Kane’s fitness.He also confirmed Kane was doing individual training sessions on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the match.Most read in FootballCarsley said: “Harry’s nursing an injury, a small knock. Something that we won’t take a chance with.””We’re not ruling him out yet of the game, but he won’t start the game.”Hopefully he’ll be in contention then for Sunday (against Finland) but, again, time will tell.”It’s not something I think we should be rushing.”So while Kane won’t be starting the match, he hasn’t been ruled out completely.I think it’s important that we put them [the players] first rather than ourselvesLee CarsleyThere’s still a possibility he could be available as a substitute, though this remains uncertain.The team is hopeful that Kane may be able to play against Finland on October 13.Importance of cautionThis careful management of Kane’s injury is particularly important given his history of injuries.Over the years, Kane has dealt with various issues, including ankle, knee and hamstring problems.The team’s cautious approach aims to protect his long-term fitness and ensure he’s available for crucial matches in the future.What else do we know about the squad?Carsley confirmed that John Stones will step in to captain England for the first time as he picks up his 82nd cap.He also mentioned that Tino Livramento and Curtis Jones have been moved up from the under-21s and will be in the squad.The FA gave an update on Kane, and also Jack Grealish: “Harry Kane continued his individualised programme at St George’s Park on Wednesday [October 9] while Jack Grealish also sat out of training as a precaution with a minor knock.”Carsley emphasised a cautious approach with player fitness, stating: “I think it’s important that we put them [the players] first rather than ourselves.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also mentioned the abundance of options the national side is currently blessed with: “There were a lot of players who were close to this squad. With the talent we have available, it would have been possible to pick a 40-man squad and justify having them all in.”The challenge is making sure we pick a competitive squad and a squad that can win the two games.” More

    • 175 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Croatia vs Scotland odds: Price boosts and specials offers for Saturday’s Nations League clash

      by

      THE Nations League returns again this week and Scotland are in League A1 action at Croatia on Saturday.It’s a big week for Steve Clarke’s side, who have struggled in recent months following a dismal Euros in the summer and need a positive result here.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereCroatia have just ended their own winless run last time out and will see this as a big opportunity to make it back-to-back wins in the group ahead of a trip to Poland in midweek.At SunSport, we’ve carefully selected some of the best price boosts and special offers for existing customers from our betting partners for tonight.Price boosts and specials offers for Croatia vs ScotlandWilliam HillOur partners over at William Hill have some top price boosts. We’ve selected our favourites which you can back below!Scott McTominay to score anytime – was 4/1, NOW 5/1 – CLAIM HERECroatia to win both halves – was 11/4, NOW 10/3 – CLAIM HEREtalkSPORT BETtalkSPORT BET also have a selection of price boosts for the game and here’s some of those on offer:Scotland to win 1-0 – was 13/1, NOW 16/1 – CLAIM HEREOver 9.5 Corners – was 11/8, NOW 29/20 – CLAIM HERERemember 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 More