UEFA Nations League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 275 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      England’s Greece horror show was a stark reminder World Cup 2026 is out of reach with so little quality at the back

      by

      ALTHOUGH this was the night when England’s embarrassment of riches in attack was put on full show, here was a stark reminder that the nation remains unbelievably thin in quality at the back.Central defenders, full-backs and even the goalkeeper. Right across the board, England have some major issues.England had a defensive nightmare against GreeceCredit: AlamyIt saw an experimental Lee Carsley team fall to a shock 2-1 defeat at WembleyCredit: ReutersJohn Stones captained England for the first time in the absence of Harry Kane and this is not a night he will look back at with any fondness.Stones was one of three players – along with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer – who could have done better for Greece’s opening goal through Vangelis Pavlidis.Along with Levi Colwill, he was also lucky that Pavlidis’ strike towards the end was ruled offside as both players were at fault.Yet right at the end, when Pavlidis struck again for the winner, Stones – along with Rico Lewis – could have done much better.READ MORE ON ENGLANDThe options for Lee Carsley – and whoever takes this team forward over the next two years – are not exactly mind-blowing when it comes to strength in depth across the back.Over the last couple of years, we should have seen this issue coming. But there has been too much focus on what we could do at the other end of the pitch.This was Stones’ 82nd cap, meaning he has now overtaken former defender Rio Ferdinand in England appearances. He is now joint 17th on the all-time list with Raheem Sterling.The Yorkshireman is even more important to the England team than Ferdinand ever was purely because the former Manchester United defender had John Terry, Sol Campbell, Ledley King and Jamie Carragher as international colleagues.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWith Harry Maguire axed from the squad before suffering an injury, and Ezri Konsa also forced to withdraw with a knock, Stones played next to Chelsea’s Levi Colwill who did OK.Yet Stones’ lack of games for Manchester City is a huge worry and this could harm England over the next two seasons.England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31He enjoyed a decent Euros in Germany even though this followed the most difficult season of his club career when form and injuries limited him to just 12 starts in the Premier League.And this season, despite playing a part in other competitions for Pep Guardiola, Stones has only started one top-flight match this term.There were times against the Greeks when Stones found himself exposed as England did their Harlem Globetrotters impression. It was a mix-up between Stones and Jordan Pickford which presented a chance to Tasos Bakasetas yet Colwill dashed back to deliver a heroic goal-line clearance.But as for the goals – along with the disallowed ones – Wembley witnessed some Car-crash.Here was the proof, not that we needed it, that left-back is also a huge problem.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.Although happy to play there, Lewis considers himself as a midfielder. Colwill can also play in that spot but he is more comfortable in central defence.Even at right-back, where we seemed to be spoilt for choice, there are concerns. Carsley clearly considers Alexander-Arnold as the team’s first-choice right-back even though Gareth Southgate listed him as a midfielder.Alexander-Arnold, though, was guilty of allowing Pavlidis to brush past him too easily for the opening goal and it was not the only time he was caught out.Kyle Walker, who did not make the England squad last month, will probably start against Finland but he will be 36 at the next World Cup.While Pickford has been England’s best keeper by some distance over the years, he was properly dodgy in this Greek humiliation.READ MORE SUN STORIESYet the alternatives are Dean Henderson and Nick Pope, along with Aaron Ramsdale. All are decent keepers but neither are going to challenge the Everton keeper.Now, there is a real chance England might have to go into a Nations League play-off in March as they might not win the group. More

    • 213 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      England ratings: Bellingham so nearly the saviour despite new position not working but Pickford has a nightmare

      by

      LEE 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, Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.Lee Carsley went without a striker for the clash against GreeceCredit: PAJude Bellingham was almost the saviour on the night, but his late goal was cancelled out by an injury time winnerCredit: GettyJordan Pickford had one of his worst England gamesCredit: RexBut 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.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHere are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land 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. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe, 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. Lee Carsley nailed on to land England manager job with bookies with Pep Guardiola second favourite at massive 10-1 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 on to 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 was nearly 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): 6Played 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. Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): 7Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): 7Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. Manager 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. READ MORE SUN STORIESCarsley 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

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      England 1-2 Greece LIVE RESULT: Disaster for woeful Three Lions as Pavlidis seals win with last-gasp strike at Wembley

      by

      ENGLAND have been STUNNED at Wembley after being beaten by a courageous Greece side for the first time in their entire history.Pavlidis’ delightful double fired the visitors to an incredible win over the Three Lions.Not even Jude Bellingham’s 20-yard strike could save Lee Carsley’s woeful side from such a humiliating defeat.RESULT: England 1-2 GreeceTV channel: ITV 1Live stream: ITV XEngland XI: Pickford; Alexander-Arnold, Stones, Colwill, Lewis; Rice, Bellingham; Saka, Foden, Palmer; GordonGreece XI: Vlachodimos; Rota, Mavropanos, Koulierakis, Giannoulis; Koubelis, Siopis, Masouras, Bakasetas Tzolis; PavlidisFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from Wembley with our live blog below…Will to winDespite the bruising loss, Chelsea’s Levi Colwill came out of the game with plenty of plaudits after a stunning goal-line clearance.With the game locked at 0-0, the 21-year-old somehow prevented a shot from Anastasios Bakasetas going into an empty net after a Jordan Pickford error. Watch the incredible clearance here. Copy linkCopiedRemembering GeorgeIt was an emotional night at Wembley as fans and players came together to remember George Baldock. The Greek international died earlier this week after being found to have drowned in his swimming pool at his home in Athens.Following a minute’s silence before the game, Greek scorer Vangelis Pavlidis dedicated his brace to his teammate.Pavlidis said: “It was a really special game for us. Because of George.”We gave everything for him and his family. It is a great win but its a special night for him.”He has been in our thoughts. He was part of the team and was a special guy.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSunSport’s ratingsEngland’s post-game ratings are in – and it’s not happy reading. One player impressed at the back despite a horror show defensively, while it was another poor night for Phil Foden.Click here to see SunSport’s full run-down from Wembley. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedCarsley’s futureLee Carsley remains the bookies’ overwhelming favourite to take over the Three Lions job full-time.Asked about his future following the game, he said: “It doesn’t change [the situation]. “My remit is [take] the three camps, so it doesn’t change in that respect.”Copy linkCopiedSystem woesCarsley has been challenged on the False 9 system he employed during tonight’s loss.The interim boss opted for no striker in the starting XI, before bringing Ollie Watkins and Dominic Solanke off the bench.Incredibly, he appeared to suggest the players had spent just “20 minutes” working on the system. He told ITV: “With the quality that we’ve got, all the goals tonight were from mistakes. Even at 1-1, we were quite fortunate.”[On the formation] it’s definitely an option. We tried something tonight and we’ve got to have that ability and courage to do that.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedCarsley fronts upEngland boss Lee Carsley has just spoken for the first time after tonight’s 2-1 loss.”I think we were second best for a lot of tonight.”It is disappointing. We need to respond well against Finland.”We tried something different. We tried to overload the midfield, play a bit differently.”I think it’s unrealistic to expect too much. It’s a case of just trying again.”Copy linkCopiedAngry RoyMan Utd legend Roy Keane couldn’t believe what he was seeing as the Three Lions went behind at Wembley. Four England defenders surrounded Pavlidis, but nobody could get a tackle in to prevent the shot. Keane raged on ITV: “It’s an unbelievable goal to concede.”If this happened in training, you’d stop the training and ask ‘Are you taking this seriously?'”You have got to do the basics of football. Where was the urgency?”Credit: APCopy linkCopiedStones speaksEngland’s stand-in captain John Stones is fronting up to the media first.He told ITV: “It’s hard to put into words. We prepared how we usually do, it didn’t come off.”We have to give credit to them. From the start they put us under pressure. They were very compact.”Disappointing from us. A lot was riding on tonight for me personally. We’ve got to look back on this game and move forward.”Copy linkCopiedEngland 1-2 GreeceWhat a fantastic performance from the visitors.They rode on a wave of emotion from the first whistle and had the ball in the England net FIVE times. All this without their first-choice striker. Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedFULL TIME: ENGLAND 1-2 GREECEThe Three Lions are beaten at Wembley. Players sink to their knees.Not even Bellingham could rescue England this time. Copy linkCopiedEngland 1-2 Greece90+7. We’re still playing at Wembley.VAR did check that penalty, but nothing given. Pavlidis is down with a head injury. Lee Carsley has a very different kind of headache. This has been a tough watch. Copy linkCopiedEngland 1-2 Greece90+5. Desperate calls for a penalty as Solanke goes down in the box!Nothing given…. Copy linkCopiedEngland 1-2 Greece90+4. A defensive horror show as England fail to clear their lines. Pavlidis has been a thorn in their side all night.And there he is, at the right place at the right time. He smashes it into the bottom corner past a stricken Pickford.Carsley sinks to his knees on the touchline. Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Greece – Vangelis PavlidisFootball, eh? And this is fully deserved. Copy linkCopiedEngland 1-1 Greece90+2. Calls for a back pass as Koulierakis awkwardly plays it back to his keeper. The ref having none of it.England attempt to get things going again, but Greece slow it down with niggly fouls. Pelkas the latest in the book. Copy linkCopiedEngland 1-1 Greece90. Neither team are finished here.What a crazy last few minutes. Greece looked to have sealed a famous win, only to be denied by the linesman’s flag. Seconds later, Bellingham has leveled it up. We will have 5 minutes of added time.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedEngland 1-1 Greece88. Who else?Bellingham does it again with time running out.A pull back is missed by everyone, falling to the Madrid man on the edge of the box.He hammers it towards the far corner, beating Vlachodimos. Copy linkCopiedGOAL! England – Jude BellinghamHave England just avoided their first competitive defeat at Wembley in four years?Copy linkCopiedEngland 0-1 Greece85. So unlucky for Greece.They exploited England’s weakness at the back again, breaking at pace after sloppy distribution from Pickford. Pavlidis was there to turn it home, but he was just in front of Stones.That’s four times Greece have had the ball in the England net tonight. Copy linkCopiedEngland 0-1 Greece84. NO GOAL!For a third time tonight, Greece have a goal ruled out.Pavlidis just strayed off before tapping past Pickford. Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Greece – Vangelis PavlidisGame over? Copy linkCopiedEngland 0-1 Greece80. A crazy goalline scramble, but Greece hold on.No England player can get a good connection on the ball, with Watkins closest. Still just one shot on target for the Three Lions. They’ve created very little in this second half. Copy linkCopiedEngland 0-1 Greece78. England load players in the box. Trent with the cross to the far post, but it floats harmlessly out for a goal kick. Greece still a threat on the counter, but they’re getting deeper and deeper. Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEngland 0-1 Greece76. Great run from Madueke, but four Greek players manage to halt his progress into the box. England camped in the Greece half and looking to force a leveller in the last 15.Copy linkCopiedEngland 0-1 Greece73. Half a chance for Bellingham, but he picks the wrong option.The Madrid man tries to lob the keeper, only to see his shot land miles wide. Watkins was free in the middle. England rolling the dice again. Here comes Dominic Solanke – back for his first cap since November 2017. He replaces Phil Foden. Copy linkCopied More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Watch Levi Colwill make ‘one of the greatest goal line clearances ever’ with miracle recovery for England vs Greece

      by

      LEVI COLWILL spared Jordan Pickford’s blushes by making a sensational goal line clearance.The Chelsea star was named in Lee Carsley’s starting XI as England took on Greece at Wembley.Levi Colwill produced a sensational goal line clearanceCredit: ITVColwill’s brilliant clearance kept the score levelCredit: RexThe Chelsea star was immediately congratulated by Jordan PickfordCredit: RexWithin the first 10 minutes he was forced to strain every sinew in order to keep the score-line level.Three Lions No1 Pickford came racing out of his goal to intercept a Greek long ball.After doing so, the Everton star dawdled in possession.In a nightmare moment for the experienced stopper, Pickford miscontrolled, gifting the ball to Greece star Anastasios Bakasetas.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Greek skipper lofted the ball towards the unguarded net, and looked almost certain to have scored.But Colwill went haring after it, before showing supreme athleticism to somehow keep the ball out.Replays showed that the ball had been just inches from crossing the line.And fans were left in awe of Colwill’s amazing clearance.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne wrote on social media: “Clearance of the year.”While a second posted: “Honestly thought no chance he makes it!”New dad Jack Grealish reveals why he would never ask Bukayo Saka to babysit and which England pal he’ll go to for tipsA third commented: “Levi Colwill just pulled off a goal-line clearance that defied physics.”And another added: “One of the best goal-line clearances you will ever see!”Colwill was earning just his fourth England cap, having featured just once under Gareth Southgate.He lined up at the back alongside John Stones, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Rico Lewis at full-back.Carsley fielded Declan Rice ahead of the back four in midfield, with attacking stars Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer and Phil Foden all squeezed into a line-up featuring no traditional No9.Just moments after Colwill’s clearance, Greece had the ball in the net.West Ham star Konstantinos Mavropanos headed the ball beyond Pickford following more unconvincing work from the England goalkeeper, only for the offside flag to come to the Three Lions’ rescue.There would be no reprieve in the 49th minute, however, when Greece took the lead via Vangelis Pavlidis.READ MORE SUN STORIESThings then went from bad to worse for the Three Lions moments later, with Bukayo Saka limping off with an injury.Jude Bellingham appeared to have rescued England with a late strike but Pavlidis struck again injury time to seal Greece’s first ever win in ten attempts against the Three Lions.Pickford, 30, endured a night to forget at WembleyCredit: Getty More

    • 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