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      England’s path to World Cup 2026 becomes clear with qualifying pots confirmed and chance of tricky meeting with rivals

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      ENGLAND are set to be among the top seeds for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers after securing their return to Nations League A.But new boss Thomas Tuchel could potentially face a nightmare encounter with a Home Nations rival as he prepares to guide the Three Lions to the World Cup finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States.Thomas Tuchel will guide England through the World Cup qualifiersThe Three Lions have been placed into Pot 1 for the World Cup qualifying drawEngland could be grouped against rivals Scotland next monthAfter a successful Nations League campaign under interim boss Lee Carsley, England have since been placed into qualifying Pot 1.Each of the Nations League quarter-finalists have also earned an automatic spot in Pot 1. That means Croatia, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal and Euro winners Spain will be among the highest-seeded teams.They have been joined by the four next highest ranking sides in the Fifa Men’s world list: England, Belgium, Switzerland and Austria.READ MORE ON ENGLANDSo, for now, England will avoid being grouped with all of the top-listed sides in Pot 1, as no two teams from the same pot can end up in the same group.However, Tuchel faces being placed in the same qualifying group as some of England’s closest rivals.Wales will be in Pot 2 after topping their Nations League group to earn promotion to League A.And England could also be grouped with one of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland in Pot 3.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Three Lions will be among those drawn into 12 groups of four or five teams on December 13.As group winners – and having avoided Nations League play-offs – they are likely to be in a five-team group that starts in March.Lee Carsley hailed for ‘best football England have ever played’ as fans say ‘can we rip up Tuchel’s contract-‘England face a 25 per cent chance of being in a four-team group, which means they are more likely to be placed in a five-team group.The latter is the worse of the two scenarios for Tuchel because it means starting qualifying in March.The German wouldn’t be able to ease into the job with a couple of friendlies during that March international break as his first two games would count towards qualifying for the World Cup.Carsley successfully led them back into the Nations League’s top tier with two convincing victories, over Greece and Ireland, in his final games in charge.By finishing top of Group B2, England are extremely likely to have a World Cup play-off spot banked, with the same situation facing Group B4 winners Wales.Following England’s 5-0 win over Ireland, Tuchel has avoided a Nations League promotion play-off as his first assignment.This means he will embark on a fresh Qualifying campaign for the World Cup finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States in 2026.What are the World Cup European Qualifying pots?Pot 1SpainGermanyPortugalFranceItalyNetherlandsDenmarkCroatiaEnglandBelgiumSwitzerlandAustriaPot 2UkraineSwedenTurkeyWalesHungarySerbiaPolandGreeceRomaniaSlovakiaCzech RepublicNorwayPot 3ScotlandSloveniaRepublic of IrelandAlbaniaNorth MacedoniaGeorgiaFinlandIcelandNorthern IrelandMontenegroBosnia and HerzegovinaIsraelPot 4BulgariaLuxembourgKosovoBelarusArmeniaKazakhstanAzerbaijanEstoniaCyprusFaroe IslandsLatviaLithuaniaPot 5MoldovaMaltaAndorraGibraltarLiechtensteinSan MarinoBest-case scenario for England’s qualifying group of fiveAs per the current world rankings and pot positions, England could face Pot 2 side Serbia in their qualifying group when it’s drawn in 23 days time.Another best-case scenario grouping would come against Pot 3 outfit Iceland.But that hasn’t been an entirely easy fixture in English football as Gareth Southgate’s side found out when they lost 1-0 to Iceland in their final warm-up game before Euro 2024 in June.England were also memorably, and embarrassingly, dumped out of Euro 2016 in a 2-1 defeat to Iceland in the Round of 16.The Three Lions will be hoping they were freak results, as they did beat their bogeyteam from the volcanic island in their two games in-between.Meanwhile, another best-case match-up would be against the Faroe Islands, who are in Pot 4 and have never qualified for the World Cup.England suffered their worst humiliation when they lost to Iceland in 2016Worst-case scenario for England’s qualifying group of fiveOut of all the teams in Pot 2, England will want to avoid being grouped with regional rivals Wales.While England beat Wales in their World Cup group in Qatar, Tuchel will want to avoid any embarrassing defeats to the Welsh, who under the new leadership of Craig Bellamy, will be hell-bent on causing an upsetBut the difficulties in Pot 2 doesn’t stop there. England will also face difficult fixtures against Erling Haaland’s Norway and Sweden.The worst case scenario from Pot 3 would be Georgia, who shocked everybody with strong performances at Euro 2024.The Georgian’s boast Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia among their ranks, with England facing a 2,000 mile trip to the edge of Europe.Wales are in Pot 2 after topping their Nations League group to earn promotion to League AThe worst-case scenario from Pot 4 would be a long journey to the border of West Asia against Azerbaijan, while Moldova are the best ranked Pot 5 side.Being in a five team group could mean games in March and June.This could cause added headaches for Tuchel as several high profile stars are set to play in the Fifa Club World Cup that starts on June 15.England stars who play for Chelsea, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Bayern Munich will be expected to play for their club teams.Clubs wouldn’t be able to block players from playing for England, that’s against the rules, but players could drop out themselves.Just last week, nine England stars withdrew from Carsley’s final camp citing fitness issues.How do the 2026 World Cup European Qualifiers work?A total of 16 Uefa nations will compete at the tournament – an increase of three from the previous edition in 2022.The European Qualifiers are scheduled to begin in March 2025 and end with the play-offs precisely a year later.Teams will play each other home and away. Nations drawn in groups of five will start Qualifying in March and sides drawn in groups of four start their campaigns in September. All groups conclude in November 2025.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe 12 group winners qualify directly, with the four remaining berths determined by play-offs involving the 12 group runners-up.Due to the Nations League play-offs in March, it means only four groups will be complete as of December 13.Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel. 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      Denmark coach walks out of awkward press conference after just 20 SECONDS

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      DENMARK’S head coach walked out of his awkward post-match press conference after just 20 seconds.Manager Brian Riemer oversaw a 0-0 draw with Serbia in the Nations League in Leskovac, Serbia.Brian Riemer was involved in an awkward post-match press conferenceHe walked out after just 20 secondsCredit: Sky SportsAnd after the game he was treated to a big surprise in his press conference, which lasted a matter of seconds.That is because not a single question was asked by the reporters who had gathered at the end of the match.Riemer, 46, had a surprised look on his face and left smiling without saying a single word.Fans were equally as bemused with one reacting: “Awkward! 😂”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnother added: “That’s a Guinness world record.”A third wrote: “Goalless draw, question-less conference. Consistency!”And another commented: “That was quick! 😅”Denmark secured a Nations League quarter-final spot while Serbia were knocked out, but the media chose not to question Riemer about the achievement.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFormer Brentford assistant boss Riemer was appointed Denmark manager last month following Kasper Hjulmand’s resignation after the Euros.He has managed just two games, losing to Spain before the goalless draw with Serbia.Uefa Nations League clash SUSPENDED after fight breaks out and one of teams walks off pitch in protest More

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      Wales promoted to Nations League A and could face ENGLAND after rivals fall to shock loss to previously winless minnows

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      NO wonder Swansea fans call Liam Cullen the ‘Kilgetty Messi’.The 25-year-old turned in the performance of his life – one the Argentina maestro himself would have been proud of.Wales have beaten Iceland to seal promotion to the Nations League ACredit: ReutersLiam Cullen stole the show with a braceCredit: GettyHe scored his first two international goals, created another for Brennan Johnson and even had a hand in Harry Wilson’s late strike.It all meant that – against all odds – Wales topped their Nations League group on another night to remember in the capital.Turkey’s shock defeat in Montenegro means the Dragons are promoted to Group A.This could see Wales drawn against England in the next edition of the tournament which kicks off in September 2026.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLMore importantly though, they will almost certainly have a World Cup play-off to fall back on if they fail to make it through their group.And the way Craig Bellamy’s reign has started, you wouldn’t bet against them finding a way to the USA in summer 2026.They showed some character here to come storming back after falling behind early on.Former Burnley man Johann Gudmundsson’s cross was headed goalwards by Orri Oskarsson and Danny Ward pushed it out.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIt fell nicely for Andri Gudjohnsen – son of ex-Chelsea forward Eidur – who despatched it back through the keeper’s legs.It was the first goal Wales have conceded at home in over five hours of football – since Finland scored in the Euro 2024 play off in March.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballersAnd it was also the first time Bellamy had found his team behind since he took charge at the start of the autumn.So this was a new kind of test for him and his team were second best for the first half hour.Yet they finally got going and Premier League pair Neco Williams and Johnson worked the ball down the left.The Spurs man floated over a cross that was glanced home by Cullen for his first goal for his country.Cullen has not scored for his club since September 21 so it was just the tonic he needed.Wales were now on top and on the stroke of half-time they were ahead as Mark Harris played another ball out to Dan James.His shot was only half-stopped by Iceland keeper Hakon Valdimarsson, but Cullen was there to bundle in the rebound.The 25-year-old hails from the small town of Kilgetty in Pembrokeshire – hence the nickname back with his club.Things had really turned on their head – particularly as news came through that group leaders Turkey were behind in Podgorica.Iceland had not given up though and sub Mikael Ellertsson brought a smart save out of Ward soon after the restart.Harry Wilson was put clean through but unusually for him he lacked composure and gave the keeper an easy save.But midway through the second half the Dragons had breathing space as Cullen turned provider, winning the ball and sending Johnson clear.This time he kept his cool and thumped a low shot home home to score his fifth goal for his country.Cullen wasn’t finished there though as Cullen won his dual with his marker as they both went for a high ball.Wilson picked up the loose ball and steered a shot beyond the visiting keeper from the edge of the box.The Fulham man has been the stand-out performer in this Nations League campaign for the Dragons – and deserved his goal.What a night for Cullen though – he could barely get a look in under former boss Rob Page and now he gets a night like this.READ MORE SUN STORIESNews filtered through that Montenegro had extended their lead over the Turks – and the celebrations could really start among the home fans.Their World Cup qualifying campaign will start in March rather than June now – but their hopes of a ticket to America in 20 months’ time have increased significantly.Brennan Johnson made it 3-1 with a clinical finishCredit: GettyHarry Wilson wrapped up the result with Wales’ fourthCredit: GettyCraig Bellamy will be eying up a World Cup spot in 2026Credit: Getty More

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      Fans just realising Anthony Gordon stuck to wholesome promise with celebration after first England goal

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      ANTHONY GORDON kept a heartwarming promise to a young Newcastle fan after scoring his first goal for England.Gordon, 23, scored his first goal for the Three Lions on Sunday as Lee Carsley signed off as interim manager with a 5-0 thrashing of Ireland.Anthony Gordon kept a promise to a young Newcastle fan after scoring his first England goalCredit: EPAYoung Magpie Ivy showed Gordon her cartwheel celebration when the pair met last monthCredit: X @NUFCGordon agreed to copy the celebration when he next scoredCredit: X @NUFCThe England star did just that after netting against Ireland on SundayCredit: ReutersIt wasn’t just a special moment for Gordon, but a touching moment for young Magpies fan Ivy who saw her hero recreate her favourite celebration.Gordon had met Ivy, who was diagnosed with hyper IGE syndrome, last month and asked the youngster what her favourite celebration was.Young Ivy pulled off her best cartwheel and Gordon promised to do exactly the same the next time he scored.And the pacy winger kept to his word after he tucked home England’s second goal against the Irish.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGordon ran off to celebrate with the Wembley crowd, rolling into a cartwheel and blowing a kiss to the camera for Ivy.Fans loved the touching moment, labelling Gordon as “a Goat” and lauding him as a “beautiful human being”.Others gushed that Gordon is a “great player and even better person” as well as a “class act”.Gordon has now earned nine caps for England since making his debut in March.Most read in FootballHe managed just one minute of action during the summer after spending almost all of Euro 2024 sitting on the bench as England suffered major final heartbreak once again.Gordon was one of four England stars to score their first goal for the nation against Ireland, joining Jarrod Bowen, Conor Gallagher and Taylor Harwood-Bellis in scoring their first Three Lions goal.Lee Carsley hailed for ‘best football England have ever played’ as fans say ‘can we rip up Tuchel’s contract-‘While it was a big night for Newcastle with Gordon, Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento all earning starts for England.Gordon’s role at club level is increasing week on week as he becomes a crucial cog in Eddie Howe’s Newcastle machine.He has already scored twice and set up another in his 10 Premier League appearances this term.But he will be hoping he can pick up the pace on his goal contributions if he’s going to better the 11 goals and 10 assists he racked up last season. More

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      San Marino get first EVER away win and secure Nations League promotion with as many wins since September as West Ham

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      SAN MARINO won their first ever away game AND clinched Nations League promotion on a historic night in Liechtenstein.The international minnows, who are the world’s bottom ranked team, came from behind to win 3-1 for their second victory of the campaign.San Marino’s bench sprinted onto the pitch at full-timeCredit: TwitterPlayers were understandably emotional after making historyCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskSan Marino manager Roberto Cevoli celebrated a second win in chargeCredit: TwitterThe players went over to their travelling fans and celebrated with themCredit: TwitterSan Marino have lost 199 of their 211 matches – and their only three victories have all come against Liechtenstein.The first of those came back in 2004, before they picked up their opening win of League D Group 1 with a 1-0 triumph back in September.But it was Monday night’s win on the road which ensured promotion to League C of the Nations League as they finish on seven points from four games, one ahead of Gibraltar.Aron Sele gave the hosts the lead before goals from Lorenzo Lazzari, Nicola Nanni and Alessandro Golinucci turned things around for San Marino.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt is the first time they have scored three goals in a game and the first time they have hit the back of the net more than once in a competitive fixture.And two wins since the start of September is as many as West Ham have managed in the same time frame.There were jubilant scenes at full-time as those on the bench sprinted onto the pitch to celebrate.The players then jumped up and down in front of the travelling San Marino fans in a heartwarming moment.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThey will now play their next Nations League campaign in the third tierCredit: TwitterItalian manager Roberto Cevoli, who has led San Marino to two wins from 10 games, said: “Finishing that first half 1-0 down was an insult to football.”But the boys were brilliant and deserved what they’ve managed to achieve.” Former top flight stadium left abandoned and overgrown just two years after club last played a game thereWhile Marco Tura, president of the San Marino Football Federation, added: “These boys made history tonight.”As people, as athletes, as men, they have shown what they are worth.”I cried with the boys.”San Marino will now spend the next Nations League campaign in the third division and could be drawn in a group alongside the likes of Slovakia and Bulgaria. More

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      Poland 1 Scotland 2: Robertson marks landmark cap with stunning late winner after McGinn’s historic opener

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      POLAND skipper Piotr Zieliński could have been forgiven for asking Andy Robertson for a selfie.Robbo’s last gasp header was as good as any goal Cristiano Ronaldo ever scored.Andy Robertson powered home a header to win the match for ScotlandCredit: Kenny RamsayIt was his first Scotland goal in five years – and on his 80th capCredit: EPAOn a night of mind-boggling high drama, the Scotland skipper’s late, late winner in Warsaw a full three minutes into stoppage time saw Steve Clarke’s side avoid Nations League relegation.The second spot dream was snatched away by Croatia’s 1-1 draw with Portugal.But on his 80th cap, the Liverpool left-back gave the travelling Tartan Army the victory to go with a spirited and gutsy display now meaning third place and a March play-off to in group A1.John McGinn fired the team ahead before Poland levelled. But in the dying seconds Robertson struck with a brave, bold header into the roof of the net.It was no more than Scotland deserved.HOW THEY RATEDCraig Gordon – recovered from a bug to win 79th cap and Scotland needed him at times. Tipped over shot from Piatkowski, saved from Swiderski then blocked Buksa. No chance with Piatkowski’s drive though. 7Anthony Ralston – Celtic right-back found it tough against Croatia but put in a decent shift last night. Read the game better and less rushed. Tired in second half and subbed. 6John Souttar – shaky at times for Rangers but grown into Scotland’s best defenders over the last four fixtures. Rock solid again. Incredible second half block then great cross for winner. 9Grant Hanley – subbed at half-time in the draw with Croatia but the Norwich defender kept his place ahead of replacement McKenna. Used experience and football brain to deal with Polish frontmen. 7Andy Robertson – only Leighton and Dalglish have more caps than the 80-cap skipper now. Clumsy early tackle and got away with slack pass which Swiderski should have scored from. Brilliant header for winner. 7Billy Gilmour – little midfielder didn’t have his shooting boots on against Croatia but cracked great effort from distance off the bar. Ball to Doak to tee up opener. Kept on going in tireless display. 7Kenny McLean – now two caps short of Hall of Fame, Norwich man kept his place in deep midfield role and kept play moving well in steady performance. Booked for challenge on Szymanski. 7Ben Doak – Clarke tried to fool everyone he might not start but was always going to be there. Took three minutes to create opener. Looked threat whenever got on the ball. Surprisingly subbed. 7Scott McTominay – great touch from the Napoli man set himself up for a shot which Skorupski saved then saw goalie tip brilliant effort onto post. Blazed tougher chance over then hobbled off. 7John McGinn – returned to starting line-up after scoring 19th goal on Friday. Took three minutes to hit No20 to cap superb display. 8Lyndon Dykes – back in to lead the line from the start for 42nd cap. Has only scored once for Birmingham. Crashed shot past post then saw header brilliantly saved then replaced by Shankland. 6SUBS: Lawrence Shankland (3) struggled for goals with Hearts and no chances last night, Ryan Christie (5) could feel hard done-by after being dropped. Booked soon after coming on in good runout, Ryan Gauld (4) in preferred central role after replacing McTominay and showed neat touches, Nicky Devlin (4) won second cap, Stuart Armstrong (2) on late.The whole Ben Doak could be dropped line from Clarke turned out to be one big ruse.A bluff.Most read in FootballA wind-up.There was no way in the world the on-form 19 year-old was going to be left out for this one.Scotland No2 John Carver on the REAL Steve Clarke, Euros disappointment, THAT Ronaldo tantrum & Souness bust-upClarke was just stringing everyone along with all that stuff about what the teenager can’t do. Right?Because if he was seriously thinking about kicking off with the wee man on the bench then he was guilty of over-thinking things like he’s done too often in the past.Doak had to play. Pure and simply. He was the outstanding man of the match against Croatia at Hampden because of the fearless way he terrorised a £77million defender.No-one in their right mind would have dropped him.The supposed argument that a super-fit kid cannot play two games three days apart is just nonsensical.Had Clarke seen it differently, it would have been an incomprehensible, unfathomable, dereliction of duty. A decision that would have been difficult to forgive and forget.But let’s play along with the idea he Doak was always going to start.The two changes Clarke did make to his starting line-up saw super McGinn and Lyndon Dykes return at the expense of Ryan Christie and young Tommy Conway.Again, there wouldn’t have been many supporters unhappy with that.McGinn has battled through a period of on-off form which has brought some criticism from certain quarters.But his goal against Croatia at Hampden on Friday was a timely reminder that he’s still got plenty to offer this Scotland team.And his strike here took his international tally to 20.Doak was at the heart of it.His run into the box saw him picked out by Billy Gilmour before his cut-back put the ball on a silver salver for McGinn.It was on his weaker right side, but the Aston Villa star calmly rolled his shot into the far corner of the net.Poland were stunned and had chances to level the game in the first-half.Craig Gordon shook off a virus to play and he made four really good stops to keep Scotland ahead.Were Clarke’s side fortunate at times? You bet they were.The home side threatened time and again and really ought to have scored at least once before the break.But was it backs to the wall from a Scotland perspective? Was it hell.Twice the Poland woodwork was rattled to go 2-0 ahead.First Gilmour unleashed a shot from outside the box which looked destined to dip over goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski  and find the net.But agonisingly the ball struck the bar.That was on 33 minutes and Scott McTominay had a decent chance four minutes later with his shot blocked.It was then that news came through from Croatia that Portugal were winning – just the update thew whole of Scotland wanted.With another goal needed, Clarke’s side did everything to get it.Three minutes before the interval McTominay drilled a low shot which was tipped onto the post by Skorupski.It was agonising.There had been other near misses too for Scotland, like Dykes smashing a shot into the side-netting from a tight angle.Poland were always dangerous, though.John Souttar was outstanding all night at centre-back and had to make an unbelievable goal-line clearance right at the start of the second-half.Scotland were giving it everything all over the pitch.There was never any sign that they were settling for the 1-0 in the hope that Portugal would score again.They kept pressing for another goal.A break forward led by McGinn almost brought it, but for a last ditch block at the near post.It was all or nothing and soon it was nothing.In 58 minutes it was Poland who hit the net with a blasted shot Gordon couldn’t get near.Kamil Piatkowski simply couldn’t have struck the ball any sweeter to find the top corner. In terms of claiming second spot, at that stage it meant nothing.Portugal were still winning and a strike for Scotland would see them finish runner’s up to Portugal by the NINTH tiebreaker, away wins.Clarke took off Doak for the closing stages with changes made to inject more energy and grab a goal.Dykes almost got it.He had a header brought with another fingertips save from the Poland No1 just when it looked he was beaten.Soon it emerged that Croatia had equalised in Split.Still Scotland didn’t give up.Substitute Christie could have scored to make it it 2-1 but his diving header was easily saved.But in the third minute if stoppage time, Robertson scored.READ MORE SUN STORIESA hopeful ball into he box was attacked in the air like never before as he won the game for Scotland.Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Conor Gallagher leaves family of girlfriend Aine May Kennedy ‘unimpressed’ after debut England goal

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      CONOR GALLAGHER risked irritating his missus’ family with his maiden goal for England.The Atletico Madrid star, 24, struck for the first time in 21 caps with his nation’s third in Sunday’s 5-0 win over the Republic of Ireland.Conor Gallagher scored his first England goal versus IrelandCredit: GettyHis stunning Wag Aine May Kennedy put a touching message on social mediaCredit: InstagramAine hails from Ireland and joked her family would not have been celebratingCredit: InstagramGallagher has Irish heritage himselfCredit: InstagramThe couple met when they were teensCredit: Instagram @ainemaykennedyHis partner Aine May Kennedy took to social media to celebrate his milestone, posting with four heart emojis: “First England international goal. So proud of you.”You dream of these achievements and you never ever stop pushing yourself.”But she then followed it up with: “Not sure all my Irish family are too impressed”.Aine, 27, is a model and she is believed to have met Gallagher when they were teenagers.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe midfielder has Irish roots himself and is also eligible for Scotland.Gallagher was not the only England man whose first Three Lions goal may have caused an uncomfortable family conversation.Taylor Harwood-Bellis, who scored on debut off the bench to round off the rout, is the future son-in-law of Ireland legend Roy Keane.The Southampton defender, 22, is engaged to the former Manchester United captain’s daughter Leah.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKeane was at Wembley on punditry duty and was asked about Harwood-Bellis, cheekily replying: “It’s not done and dusted yet, things can change really quickly in the Keane household.”But he also added: “It’s nice for him, it’s good for him to make his debut.”He is a really kid good and his family have done a great job.”Roy Keane in heartfelt tribute to future son-in-law Taylor Harwood-Bellis after ‘bittersweet’ England goal vs Ireland_1England ratings vs IrelandEngland’s newbies put on a five-star second half performance to hammer ten-man Ireland.No fewer than four young Lions bagged their first international goal during the 5-0 win.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the England stars at Wembley.Jordan Pickford: 6Matched the great Gordon Banks by reaching 73 caps. But the Everton stopper was pretty much a spectator as Ireland showed little ambition in attack.Tino Livramento: 7Became the seventh player across Carsley’s three England camps to be handed a debut. It was his cross which caused panic in the Irish defence, allowing Gordon to volley home his first England goal. Kyle Walker: 6Played at centre-back in back four for his 93rd cap. Headed an early chance over, had a couple of scares before the break before being withdrawn just after the hour when the game was up for the visitors.Marc Guehi: 7Was a little clumsy with a challenge on Evan Ferguson inside the box before the break, but nothing was given. Set up a first England goal for his best mate Gallagher with a flick-on from a corner during the goal blitz at the start of the second half.Lewis Hall: 7Admitted to nerves before his debut on Thursday but did not seem to have any here on his first start, playing alongside his Newcastle colleagues Livramento and Gordon. Could this be the start of a long England career for one of our few natural left-backs?Conor Gallagher: 8Was given the nod ahead of Angel Gomes for the second successive game and capped it with his first England goal by poking home Guehi’s flick just before the hour. England’s confidence at that point was summed up by Gallagher attempting a rabona.Curtis Jones: 7Tidy, if not hitting the heights of his magnificent debut three days earlier. But overall, another success story of the brief Carsley era which has given Thomas Tuchel plenty more options to consider.Noni Madueke: 7His final ball was not quite there compared to his man-of-the-match performance in Athens. But the Chelsea man still caused Ireland all manner of problems with the explosive way he runs at opponents.Jude Bellingham: 9 STAR MANEffectively had three assists as he won the penalty for Harry Kane’s opener – which led to Scales being sent off – and teed up goals for subs Bowen and Harwood-Bellis. A brilliant display from the Real Madrid superstar. How lucky we are to have him. Anthony Gordon: 7Lovely volley for his first England goal and you could see how much it meant to him with his celebration. Caused Ireland issues with his direct running in a promising display.Harry Kane: 7A ponderous first half led to genuine questions over his suitability to this team… but then he showed why he is still the man with a stunning ball to Bellingham in the build-up to the opener.Stuck away the resulting penalty when Bellingham was tripped for his 69th England goal.SUBS:Taylor Harwood-Bellis (on for Walker, 62): 8Followed up Jones’ feat in Greece of netting on his England debut as he brilliantly headed home Bellingham’s fine cross to make it five.Morgan Rogers (on for Gordon, 74): 7Looked confident when coming on and ready to cause more misery against the tired ten men of Ireland. Would have had an assist had Jarrod Bowen put away his cutback.Dominic Solanke (on for Gallagher, 74): 6Almost diverted in his first England goal from fellow sub Bowen’s cross but was beaten to it, just, by the defender.Jarrod Bowen (on for Madueke, 74): 8Crashed home his first England goal with his first touch, seconds after coming on, to make it 4-0.Angel Gomes (on for Jones, 79): 6Tidied up and looked comfortable again in possession. Booked. More

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      Man Utd send scout to watch Viktor Gyokeres score for Sweden as Ruben Amorim hopes to land top transfer target

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      MANCHESTER UNITED had eyes on Viktor Gyokeres on Saturday as Ruben Amorim’s top target scored his fifth goal of the Nations League campaign.The Sporting Lisbon striker put on another impressive display as he found the back of the net for Sweden in their 2-1 win over Slovakia.Viktor Gyokeres scored in front of a Man Utd scout for SwedenCredit: RexRuben Amorim appears keen on bringing him with him from SportingCredit: GettyUnited sent Sergio Souza — one of their top Scandinavian talent spotters — to Stockholm for the clash and he barely had time to take his seat before Gyokeres struck in the third minute.The former Coventry City star raced onto an Alexander Isak through ball before shooting across Slovakia keeper Martin Dubravka into the bottom corner.Souza revealed his presence at the game in an Instagram video post during the national anthems, although he was no doubt busily scribbling notes by the time Gyokeres had set the stadium alight with his latest strike.The 26-year-old is on pace to outperform his incredible 43-goal debut season in Portuguese football, having hitting the back of the net 23 times for Sporting this term.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHis 16 Primeira Liga goals are double the amount of any other player in the league and he has also netted five Champions League efforts in four games so far.Some of Europe’s biggest clubs are stepping up their interest with Paris Saint-Germain chief Luis Campos having reportedly already reached out to the his representatives.Bayern Munich have also been tipped to enter the bidding if they look to move Harry Kane on in the summer.But United potentially hold an ace up their sleeve with Amorim in place at Old Trafford.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhen asked about a potential move to Man Utd, Gyokeres said: “He probably has some strikers there already, so we’ll see. No, he hasn’t [asked me to join him].“It’s fun but nothing I attach any importance to because it’s talk and nothing concrete.”Dimitar Berbatov tips Viktor Gyokeres to follow Ruben Amorim to Man Utd Gyokeres added: “I want to finish this season at Sporting. I love it here. “We will see [about a new club] when the time comes. I want to play, that’s crucial, and there will be also other factors.”United are currently struggling for goals with their two centre forward options, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, having managed to score just three goals between them all season.On signing players from his old club, Amorim said: “In January I’m not going to get anyone from Sporting.”Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More