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      Scotland 0 Greece 3 (Agg 1-3) – Steve Clarke & stars BOOED by Tartan Army as Scots relegated after Nations League defeat

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      SCOTLAND supporters can’t get a bevvy at the fitba.But tonight Hampden was filled with boos.Giannis Konstantelias celebrates scoring the first goalCredit: PAGreece wonderkid Konstantinos Karetsas made it two before half-timeCredit: ReutersGreece players celebrate Christos Tzolis goal to make it 3-0Credit: PAThe Tartan Army let their feelings known after this sobering Nations League relegation play-off defeat to Greece.Steve Clarke said just weeks ago he was 75 percent certain he’d be leaving as Scotland boss when his contract ran out.If there’s more of this when the World Cup qualifiers kick off, there will be zero debate about it.If his team were awesome in Athens they were God-awful in Glasgow to turn out one of their worst performances during his six years in the job.Clarke stood out on the touchline after it was all over and looked forlorn by the defeat and the reaction to it.But he’s had enough praise during his tenure in the job.The abuse he got from the fed-up is just something he’s going to have to accept.The punters were expecting so, so much better going into this decider with a 1-0 lead and yet the team did what they did in the last two major tournaments.Most read in FootballThey failed to turn up.And like in Germany in the summer, Clarke has to take his share of responsibility for yet another dire display in a game that mattered.Emotional moment Scotland fans pay tribute to Denis Law against Greece as Sir Alex Ferguson joins in with classy gestureThis wasn’t the Germans, Spain or Croatia – this was Greece who tore our team apart.Put it this way, before kick-off there was a magnificent tifo for the late, great Denis Law who passed away in January.But if heaven has a TV screen then the Law Man would have been forgiven for reaching for the remote.Let’s get it right, Greece were well worth their win.Their white-haired veteran boss, Ivan Jovanovic, played an absolute blinder.In Athens last Thursday night, he had his side firing cross after cross into the Scotland penalty box.And Scotland lapped it up.Centre-backs Grant Hanley and John Souttar positioned themselves brilliantly that night and got their heads on everything that came their way.This time, Greece played. Boy, did they play.Their 17 year-old wonder-kid Konstantinos Karetsas looked the part when he stepped on the bench in the first-leg.It was no surprise that he started this decider and was fed the ball at every opportunity.How Scotlad stars rated against GreeceCRAIG GORDON – quiet start to 81st cap but exposed by defence at all three of Greece’s goals. Little he could do as the scorers were given time and space to net. Got away with poor kick late on 6TONY RALSTON – terrific in first leg despite lack of action for Celtic. Was sold short by Christie at second Greek goal and didn’t let his country down in an unflashy showing 6GRANT HANLEY – seventh 90 minutes of the season and sixth for Scotland. Dropped deep to play Greece onside before recovering. Bailed out by Souttar’s goalline clearance after weak challenge on Pavlidis allowed him in 5JOHN SOUTTAR – Rangers man has been such a steadying influence at the back. He and Hanley found themselves sitting deep at Greece opener. Brilliant goalline clearance saved his defensive partner 6ANDY ROBERTSON – skipper was up against wonderkid Konstantinos Karetsas on 82nd appearance. First goal came down his side then dragged inside to leave him free to score second. Subbed 4BILLY GILMOUR – usual energetic display from the wee man as one of the two sitters alongside McLean. Started by snapping into tackles and bursting forwards with purpose. Boos rung out when subbed before hour 5KENNY McLEAN – passing was crisp to begin with. First-time ball teed up McTominay for early effort that was saved. Less successful when tried the more ambitious balls and drifted out of things. Subbed 5RYAN CHRISTIE – replaced Ferguson after ban for first leg but game to forget. Sloppy in possession then ball watching in buildup to second. Slack pass seconds after restart teed up Greek third. Lucky to last 73 minutes 3SCOTT McTOMINAY – writers’ international player of the year started well and saw early effort saved then another deflected into side netting. Great close control and strength but almost anonymous after the break 5JOHN McGINN – quiet 75th cap for the Aston Villa skipper and struggled to influence things until latched onto McTominay pass on half hour and saw shot saved. Great late pass for Tierney chance 5CHE ADAMS – Early penalty claim waved away after taking tumble. Great hold up play to start with, epitomised in one moment which saw him win a foul. Became isolated as Greece’s dominance grew. Subbed 4SUBSKieran Tierney (3) left wing role and late chance saved, George Hirst (3) booked on Hampden bow then nodded chance over, Lewis Ferguson (4) so unlucky to be dropped. Cautioned for catching Karetsas with arm, James Wilson (2) 18-year-old Hearts kid was given his debut, Tommy Conway (2) did little.The Greek’s front-foot, high press was also brave and bold.Karetsas was on the right and always ready to pounce and it was the same with Giannis Konstantelias on the left.Those were the two who scored the two first-half goals to put the visitors on their way towards victory.The first, after 20 minutes, was a decent finish from Konstantelias after he slammed a cut-back past Craig Gordon.The second, four minutes before the break, was just sensational from little teenager Karetsas.His one-touch, left foot curling shot didn’t give the Scotland No1 a hope.Clarke’s side did have moments at 0-0.Scott McTominay was Scotland’s biggest threat with John McGinn bringing the best stop from goalkeeper Kostas Tzolakis.Che Adams also had a half-hearted shout for a penalty but the Italian ref was never going to give it/But there was something sadly missing from the performance from the men in dark blue.The effort was there, sure.Gilmour saw plenty of the ball too and tried to dictate play from the anchorman role.But it was only decent to a certain point.Clarke only made one change to his line-up that started in Athens with Ryan Christie coming in for Lewis Ferguson.But the Bournemouth midfielder didn’t bring his outstanding club form to Hampden.He was ball-watching at the Greece second goal and the man who played a terrible square pass that led to the third.Coming just 17 seconds part the beginning of the second half, it was a disastrous restart for Scotland.Konstantelias did brilliantly to make the most of it by slipping in the cleverest of little reverse passes to striker Christos Tzolis.He then controlled his finish past Gordon.But it was dire stuff from a Scotland point of view.Sir Alex Ferguson leads emotional tribute to Denis Law in Scotland’s first home clash since Man Utd legend died at 84Why Clarke hadn’t made any personnel changes at the break was a complete mystery bordering on a dereliction of duty.His team was crying out to be altered but, for whatever reason, he opted to sent the same men back out.It was only after 54 minutes that he made a triple change.But even Clarke’s thinking there was muddled too.Taking off Kenny McLean and Adams made sense but Gilmour didn’t deserve the hook.It was a decision booed by the Tartan Army with the Napoli playmaker clearly unhappy himself as he shook his head as he trudged off the park and sat on the bench.It was no reflection on the three who came on – George Hirst, Kieran Tierney and Ferguson – who all added freshness.But Gilmour and the supporters had every right to be annoyed.As the clock ticked on, it was clear as day Scotland weren’t going to get the goals needed to turn it around.Clarke made two more changes after 72 minutes with Christie and skipper Andy Robertson replaced by Tommy Conway and young James Wilson for his debut.The fans were happier with those decisions but nothing really changed.Greece held their shape magnificently and did the hard graft needed to protect their lead.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd after a late, late Tierney chance the final whistle brought more jeers from the fed-up fans left inside the stadium with thousands already in the pub.Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      BBC forced to apologise for technical issues for Scotland vs Greece clash as viewers are left without commentary

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      THE BBC was forced to apologise for technical issues after viewers watching Scotland vs Greece were left without commentary.The Nations League battle saw both sides compete to remain in Group A.The BBC apologised after fans were left without commentary for Scotland vs GreeceHosts Scotland took a 1-0 league into the crunch clash as Sir Alex Ferguson led tributes to late Manchester United legend Denis Law.But fans watching at home were immediately left scratching their heads at kick off.As the two sides started playing, it became clear that there had been no commentary in the moments preceding kick-off.The match then started, with still no sound heard from the commentary box.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut the BBC appeared to be clearly aware of the issue.And an apology was swiftly flashed across the bottom of the screen.It read: “We apologise for lack of commentary.”The match then saw panellists in the studio also issue a message.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThey said: “We apologise for the lack of commentary. We’re currently having technical difficulties.”Fortunately for fans, the commentary eventually resumed.BBC forced to apologise for technical issues as Scotland vs Greece clash as viewers are left without commentaryBut this time, it was several seconds out of sync with the live action.It saw fans flock to social media to complain about the situation.One said: “BBC having a mare here.”Another declared: “Outstanding coverage of the national team here.”One noted: “Dear BBC, can you please sort the sound out.”Another added: “Fix the sound, it’s like someone telling you what happens before you’ve watched something.” More

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      Thomas Tuchel’s first away game as England manager faces being moved to completely different country over stadium issue

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      THOMAS TUCHEL could be heading to BARCELONA – for his first away game as England manager.England will play away to Andorra in a World Cup qualifier on June 7.Thomas Tuchel is first preparing for Latvia on Monday eveningCredit: GettyTuchel’s third game in charge is likely to be at Espanyol’s RCDE StadiumCredit: GettyIt will be the first time for Tuchel to play at a venue outside of Wembley, as England face Latvia on Monday night after beating Albania 2-0 on Friday.The Andorran Football Federation are considering switching the game to Espanyol’s 40,000-capacity RCDE Stadium, which means many more England fans would be able to travel.Andorra were hoping England would open their new stadium in the town of Encamp but it is unlikely to be ready.The last time England played in Andorra was under Gareth Southgate in October 2021 and the match was staged at the Estadi Nacional in the capital, Andorra la Vella, but the ground only holds 3,000.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSo the Andorrans are considering going to Espanyol’s stadium to make more money and are in talks with the Spanish giants although a deal has yet to be agreed.England played Andorra in Barcelona in both 2007 and 2008, with both games at the Olympic Stadium.For now, Tuchel is focused on making it two wins in two qualifiers on Monday. And he’s still on a high from launching his reign, albeit with a modest performance against Albania.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe German said: “It still feels great. I love the group of players. “Now we’ll try to squeeze the best out of them.”’I don’t expect anything’ Roy Keane savages England star after below-par display in Thomas Tuchel’s first gameBut Tuchel has already shown he is willing to give frank verdicts on individual displays.He admitted wingers Marcus Rashford and Phil Foden “were not as impactful as they normally can be”.The ex-Chelsea boss added: “I’m not too sure why we struggled to bring the ball to them quicker and to bring the ball in more open positions to them.”I think we lacked a little bit runs off the ball. So it was a bit too much passing and not enough dribbling.”But Tuchel was gushing about Jude Bellingham, who was England’s creator in chief.He said: “He is always ready to give everything.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Jude is and will be a key player for us. And he is happy to take the responsibility.“He’s always able to make the difference so we need to find the structure to make the most of it.” More

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      Thomas Tuchel scraps Gareth Southgate’s England tradition but move splits fans with some branding it ‘nonsense’

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      THOMAS TUCHEL divided fans with numbers – after ditching one of Gareth Southgate’s England traditions.The new boss used squad numbers for his starting team, whereas predecessor Southgate had preferred the good old one to 11.Goalscorers Myles Lewis-Skelly and Harry Kane did a number on AlbaniaCredit: RexEngland lined up for the World Cup qualifier with their squad numbersThe only figure Tuchel might care about is the 2-0 margin by which the Three Lions saw off Albania in their World Cup qualifying opener.But many supporters were split after he abandoned Southgate’s nostalgic numbering, having also opted not to sing the national anthem before the match.It meant history-making Myles Lewis-Skelly wore the No 23 – which is five above his age.And England’s other full debutant, 32-year-old Dan Burn, was at 12.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne fan demanded a return to Southgate’s simplicity.He wrote: “England need to go back to 1-11 numbers on their shirts. What is this number 12, 17 & 23 in the starting XI nonsense?”Another said: “Why squad numbers? Should be 1-11.”But other viewers reckons it all just adds up to Tuchel going with the flow – by assigning squad numbers and keeping them for the games.Most read in FootballEngland ratings vs Albania as Lewis-Skelly enjoys dream debut but Tuchel fails to solve Foden issue By Tom BarclayMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY made history and Harry Kane extended his own record-breaking as England sunk Albania in Thomas Tuchel’s first game.Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to score on his Three Lions debut and top goal-getter Kane notched his 70th international strike as Tuchel began his World Cup qualifying campaign with a modest 2-0 win.New boy Dan Burn partnered Ezri Konsa in central defence at Wembley, while Marcus Rashford and Curtis Jones were also handed starts.Meanwhile, Tuchel wrestled with the same issue faced by predecessor Sir Gareth Southgate – deciding where to fit in Phil Foden.Left-back Lewis-Skelly, 18, slotted home on 20 minutes following a delightful turn and even better pass from Jude Bellingham.But England stuttered after the break – until skipper Kane classily took down a Declan Rice pass and curved home the clincher.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions in German manager Tuchel’s opening match…BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSOne even claimed: “By far the most encouraging sign for England’s future under Thomas Tuchel is that they appear to have adopted permanent squad numbers instead of the starters always wearing 1-11.”Meanwhile, a few fans were more intrigued by irked.Thomas Tuchel prefers the highs and lows of squad numbersCredit: RexOne such observer posted: “Interesting seeing #England not wearing numbers 1-11!”In the end the debate didn’t subtract from an important victory, albeit one that was far more solid than scintillating.And apart from the scoreline, only two figures really stood out.The first was Lewis-Skelly scoring aged only 18 years and 176 days.So by 33 days he surpassed Marcus Rashford as the youngest player to net on his England debut.And the second noteworthy number was skipper Harry Kane rounding off the Wembley triumph with his 70th international goal.That takes Kane 17 clear of second-placed Wayne Rooney in the all-time list of Three Lions’ scorers. More

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      Emotional moment Myles Lewis-Skelly’s nan is spotted going wild in Wembley crowd after his historic England goal

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      MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY’S family were spotted emotionally celebrating his record-breaking debut England goal.The Arsenal star was given his first senior cap by new Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel – against Albania at Wembley.Myles Lewis-Skelly scored on his England debutCredit: GettyHe became England’s youngest debut scorerCredit: GettyLewis-Skelly’s grandmother and sister were spotted hugging after his goalMembers of the family cheered on from the stands at WembleyAnd it took just 20 minutes for left-back Lewis-Skelly to repay Tuchel’s faith as he latched onto Jude Bellingham’s stunning pass and slotted past keeper Thomas Strakosha.And at the age of 18 years and 176 days, he became the youngest player EVER to score on his his first England cap.Lewis-Skelly surpassed the record set by team-mate Marcus Rashford – who did so at 18 years and 209 days against Australia in May 2016.Rashford, 27, was coincidentally making his first international appearance in a year in England’s World Cup qualifying opener.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLewis-Skelly’s family were seen going wild in the Wembley stands after the opening goal.ITV cameras picked up the wonderkid’s grandmother and sister cheering and hugging.Lewis-Skelly said after the game: “I’m lost for words. I am so grateful for the manager to put trust in me. I am so happy.”The fans made me feel at home so thank you to them.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSTuchel said: “Amazing player. Amazing personality.”He came into camp and showed straight away that it’s normal to fall in love with him. It is well deserved.”Myles Lewis-Skelly lost for words after finding out he has broken England recordCaptain Harry Kane sealed a 2-0 win as Declan Rice also hailed his Gunners team-mate Lewis-Skelly.Rice said: “He is fearless. He does everything right off the pitch and he is only 18.“I knew he was going to play like that tonight because of the confidence he has.“He has kept his feet on the ground and it is only the start for him.”Declan Rice hailed Gunners team-mate Lewis-SkellyLewis-Skelly and Rice pose after the winCredit: Getty More

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      England ratings: Myles Lewis-Skelly in dream debut but Thomas Tuchel has same Phil Foden issue as Gareth Southgate

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      MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY made history and Harry Kane extended his own record-breaking as England sunk Albania in Thomas Tuchel’s first game.Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to score on his Three Lions debut and top goal-getter Kane notched his 70th international strike as Tuchel began his World Cup qualifying campaign with a modest 2-0 win. Myles Lewis-Skelly broke the deadlock with a landmark goalCredit: ReutersHarry Kane confirmed victory with a smooth finish on 78 minutesCredit: GettyLewis-Skelly helped Thomas Tuchel taste victory in his opening gameCredit: GettyNew boy Dan Burn partnered Ezri Konsa in central defence at Wembley, while Marcus Rashford and Curtis Jones were also handed starts.Meanwhile, Tuchel wrestled with the same issue faced by predecessor Sir Gareth Southgate – deciding where to fit in Phil Foden. Left-back Lewis-Skelly, 18, slotted home on 20 minutes following a delightful turn and even better pass from Jude Bellingham.But England stuttered after the break – until skipper Kane classily took down a Declan Rice pass and curved home the clincher.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHere’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions in German manager Tuchel’s opening match…JORDAN PICKFORD – 6WITH Tuchel naming four goalkeepers in his first squad, you wondered if the long-serving stopper’s position in goal may be under threat. But Pickford started and looked fairly assured with what little he had to do.BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWas not afraid to go long with his passes at times, compared to the obsession in the Premier League of playing out from the back no matter what.Most read in FootballHad one nervy moment when Dan Burn’s block looped up against the crossbar in the first half, before the Geordie headed it away.Myles Lewis-Skelly lost for words after finding out he has broken England recordKYLE WALKER – 6STARTED despite his underwhelming season at Manchester City and now on loan at AC Milan.His passing was OK for the most part, albeit not super crisp.But the veteran, earning his 94th cap, had an excellent moment shortly before half-time when he fired in a cross which Bellingham headed goalwards, only to be denied by an excellent Thomas Strakosha save.Vital interception in the second half when sub Armando Broja had got in behind Burn.EZRI KONSA – 7MADE double figures for England caps with this appearance.Was pretty solid alongside Burn, having plenty of the ball as all the England defensive players did.Made an excellent last-ditch tackle after the ball was played in behind his centre-back partner in the final 20 minutes.Interesting to see Konsa selected over Marc Guehi, given the Crystal Palace man was England’s best defender at the Euros.DAN BURN – 7ALMOST had another Wembley dream moment in the space of a week.The giant defender was making his England debut six days on from helping Newcastle win their first domestic trophy in 70 years.Burn’s bullet header from a corner sent the Magpies on their way to victory then – and he nearly repeated the trick here when nodding the ball against the crossbar in the first half.He put his body on the line and made a number of brave blocks, including the one that looped up against his own woodwork.Had more of a difficult time of it when the speedier Broja came off the bench in the second half, and also managed to kick Myrto Uzuni in the face with one whack clear.England debutant Dan Burn hit the bar with a headerCredit: AlamyMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – STAR MAN 8SIX months ago the 18-year-old had not even played for Arsenal.Now he has not only made his senior debut for England – but has his first goal too.The left-back raced in down the left to meet Bellingham’s inch-perfect pass, before poking it through the keeper’s legs.Looked to have tears in his eyes as he celebrated his magic moment – and was accomplished in the rest of his display.CURTIS JONES – 6THE Liverpudlian was one of many success stories of youngsters brought through by Tuchel’s interim predecessor Lee Carsley.Here he played a bit further forward at times, interchanging with Bellingham when allowed.Had plenty of the ball as England dominated possession, though did give it away with a poor early pass.Jones managed to wriggle in down the right on 14 minutes, but his decent cut-back was cleared.Curtis Jones played the first 74 minutes on FridayCredit: AFPDECLAN RICE – 7SO many touches for the Arsenal man as England patiently probed for opportunities. Southgate’s favourite system involved two pivots.But Rice here was generally alone in his deep-lying role, suggesting Tuchel will be a bit more ambitious in his attacking approach.Having said that, there were a lot of passes backwards from England, underpinning a dominant, if not overly exciting display.Though one such Rice chip over to Kane brought about the crucial second.PHIL FODEN – 5SOUTHGATE was never able to get the best out of Phil Foden, while Carsley only started him once in his six interim games.The fact that the City star was starting here suggested Tuchel is keen to find a way of unlocking his talent.But Foden struggled to make much of an impact again.He was deployed wide right, and did try to dribble forward when he could, but with little effect.JUDE BELLINGHAM – 8ENGLAND’S best moments involved the Real Madrid superstar.Albania’s low block was difficult to break down, but Bellingham’s inventive passing was Tuchel’s best method of doing so.His delicious pass for Lewis-Skelly provided the opener, while he had a neat cross that Kane nodded wide near the hour.Was denied a goal on two occasions by two top Strakosha saves, first from a toe-poke, then a close-range header.MARCUS RASHFORD – 7SEEMED to relish being back playing for England after his surprise recall by Tuchel.Was full of energy and looked to spin in behind at every opportunity, even if he did not always receive the pass from his team-mates.A beautiful diagonal pass over to Foden early on showed his technical quality.England lacked willing runners at the Euros, but here, a motivated Rashford provided one.Recalled attacker Marcus Rashford evades Ivan BalliuCredit: ReutersHARRY KANE – 7REGULARLY dropped deep in the early stages, despite his manager saying in the week that he wanted his star man to stay up top.It did allow him to display his impressive passing range though and he had a few quality balls through for Rashford.Had a goal-bound shot brilliantly blocked by Albanian captain Berat Gjimshiti in the first half.But Kane’s clinical finish into the far corner in the second half saw him reach 70 goals for his country – and his fifth in three games against this opposition.SUBSANTHONY GORDON (on for Rashford, 74) – 6Was left limping for the final few minutes after taking a whack on his hip in injury time. Concerningly, was down on the turf in pain as the final whistle went.JARROD BOWEN (for Foden, 74) – 6Mainly ensured the 2-0 scoreline stayed that way.MORGAN ROGERS (for Jones, 74) – 6Played a bit deeper than he does for Aston Villa, filling in at No8 like Jones had.READ MORE SUN STORIESJORDAN HENDERSON (for Rice, 82) – 6ON for his first England appearance since 2023, and his 82nd in total, to help see it out. Crunched Adrion Pajaziti with a poor challenge.REECE JAMES (for Lewis-Skelly, 90) – 6Main role was allowing debutant Lewis-Skelly to get a standing ovation. First international in two years, coming on at left-back. Lewis-Skelly is mobbed after his history-making openerCredit: Getty More

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      England 2 Albania 0: Myles Lewis-Skelly and Harry Kane get Thomas Tuchel’s Three Lions reign off to flying start

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      IT wasn’t exactly the thrilling white-knuckle ride we’d been promised by Thomas Tuchel. But England set off on their journey to the United States with one goal from debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly and one from their all-time record goalscorer Harry Kane to see off a limited Albania.   Thomas Tuchel got off to winning ways as England bossCredit: ReutersMyles Lewis-Skelly opened the scoring for EnglandCredit: GettyLewis-Skelly became England’s youngest debut scorerCredit: GettyArsenal’s 18-year-old left-back got the Tuchel era under way with a bang by becoming the youngest England player ever to score on his debut – rewarding a ballsy selection from the new German manager.Lewis-Skelly is a modern full-back, frequently popping up in attacking midfield positions and showing excellent industry and footwork. But in the hour of football between their two goals, England toiled and showed some familiar problems. Phil Foden was anonymous on the right, and still doesn’t look as though he can fit convincingly into the same team as Jude Bellingham, whose brilliant assist teed up Lewis-Skelly’s dreamy start. READ MORE IN football Marcus Rashford, selected after just one Premier League start on loan at Aston Villa, was a willing runner with little end product. While Dan Burn, Tuchel’s other debutant, was unconvincing in defence despite crashing a header against the bar shortly before half-time. Had Gareth Southgate still been in charge the nation would have yawned at it all. But then that is the problem with tournament qualifying campaigns.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSEngland will be up against a succession of teams who will pack their defence and play with little ambition and none of it will mean very much by the time Tuchel’s men get to the World Cup in America. With the only two friendlies this year having been scheduled against Senegal and Wales, England are not going to face any truly elite opposition for at least 12 months.  Roy Keane says Thomas Tuchel’s criticism of Gareth Southgate’s England was ‘harsh’This was, Tuchel and his team hoped, the first step on a glorious journey towards a World Cup Final in New Jersey next July. And the new boss wants all of us cheerleading on his bandwagon. Good luck with that. But having talked a good game about boldness and positivity, Tuchel selected a bold and positive line-up – giving debuts to Lewis-Skelly and man-of-the moment Burn, as well as recalling Rashford. With a back four and a positive-looking midfield selection, it felt that the much-mentioned Southgate ‘handbrake’ had been consigned to the breakers’ yard. Still, England had humped Albania 5-0 here under Southgate four years ago. The most successful Three Lions boss in half a century wasn’t as negative as history is now rewriting him. England started quietly, dominating the ball but doing little with it until the 19th minute when Lewis-Skelly’s moment arrived.It was a moment of instinctive brilliance from Bellingham which created it, the Real Madrid dropping deep, spinning his man and taking out five defenders with one slicing pass which located Lewis-Skelly on the overlap. England ratings vs Albania as Lewis-Skelly enjoys dream debut but Tuchel fails to solve Foden issue By Tom BarclayMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY made history and Harry Kane extended his own record-breaking as England sunk Albania in Thomas Tuchel’s first game.Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to score on his Three Lions debut and top goal-getter Kane notched his 70th international strike as Tuchel began his World Cup qualifying campaign with a modest 2-0 win.New boy Dan Burn partnered Ezri Konsa in central defence at Wembley, while Marcus Rashford and Curtis Jones were also handed starts.Meanwhile, Tuchel wrestled with the same issue faced by predecessor Sir Gareth Southgate – deciding where to fit in Phil Foden.Left-back Lewis-Skelly, 18, slotted home on 20 minutes following a delightful turn and even better pass from Jude Bellingham.But England stuttered after the break – until skipper Kane classily took down a Declan Rice pass and curved home the clincher.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions in German manager Tuchel’s opening match…The Arsenal kid needed just one touch to nutmeg keeper Thomas Strakosha and ignite the Tuchel era. Kane was soon dropping deep and pinging a sweet pass on to the chest of the on-rushing Rashford but he failed to control when he ought to have troubled the keeper. Soon there was panic in the England defence when Dan Burn sliced an attempted clearance from Qasim Laci’s cross and the ball looped up onto the top of the bar before the big Newcastle defender challenged Pickford for the same ball. Tuchel had been talking up the importance of England’s players talking to each other all week. And here wasn’t an example of that. It took 34 minutes for the first paper plane to reach the Wembley turf but Bellingham soon livened things up again, racing on to Rashford’s through-ball but having his shot blocked by Strakosha. England were largely unconvincing but Kane was everywhere, winning several tackles and Bellingham was generally the creative spark. Foden was anonymous on the right wing, while Curtis Jones was eager with little end product. Harry Kane wrapped up the winCredit: ReutersKane proved why he is still England’s No9Credit: ReutersFive minutes before the break, Kyle Walker darted down the right and cut back for Bellingham, whose diving header was blocked by Straoksha, Kane’s follow-up effort deflected over.Then from a Declan Rice corner, Burn leapt to a height of approximately 12 feet and nutted against the crossbar – so close to a second Wembley goal in the space of five days during this ridiculous week of his.Early in the second half, the great Geordie giraffe was lucky to escape at least a yellow card for booting Myrto Azuni in the head on the follow-through.   Lewis-Skelly popped up in central to start a decent England attack, Rashford haring forward but losing his footing before Kane headed wide from a Bellingham cross. Albania boss Sylvinho sent on Armando Broja and the Everton loanee soon toasted Burn for pace twice without managing to threaten Pickford. And Ezri Konsa – arguably England’s best player – soon had to make an excellent interception to deny Jasir Asani a clear sight of goal., Tuchel responded with his first three subs – Jarrod Bowen, Anthony Gordon and Morgan Rogers on for Rashford, Foden and Jones, none of whom had set the world ablaze. READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd soon Rice was curling a cross to Kane, who plucked the ball out of the air with his right foot, then took a second to compose himself before he slotted home the second on 78 minutes.It was Kane’s 70th goal for England and if they are to rule the world in the States next summer, he and Bellingham will have to run the show. Dan Burn’s a great story but we may not see much more of him in an England shirt By Charlie Wyett ALTHOUGH it was the teenage new boy who got the Thomas Tuchel show on the road, the night was just as memorable for the 32-year-old who took the long route to an England cap.Dan Burn, raised 285 miles away in Blyth and who never looked like he would be a regular visitor to Wembley at any stage during his career, has just completed a truly extraordinary week.To lift a trophy with Newcastle on your 487th professional appearance is one thing. But then being unable to celebrate properly on the Sunday evening because you are reporting for England the following morning at St George’s Park is just extraordinary.But there is no doubt that Burn’s inclusion in Tuchel’s first squad was arguably the most popular.Before the game, Burn looked like the proudest man in this country as he belted out the national anthem with three lions on his shirt. Remarkably, he hit the woodwork at both ends on a night so scoring for both teams is not something he would have wanted to be remembered for.For the games in June against Andorra and Senegal, both John Stones and Harry Maguire will be back.So whether the Toon defender to next year’s World Cup remains up for debate but right now, he really will not give two hoots. He will just be savouring every minute with the national team before he eventually comes back down to earth.Tuchel is clearly one of those managers who believes you don’t win anything with kids. And that is why he has recalled Jordan Henderson who returned for England as a late sub.Surprisingly, it looks as though Tuchel has reservations over Marc Guehi which is why he chose not to partner him with Ezri Konsa. But rather than start Levi Colwill, Tuchel decided to give Burn his surprise start .Understandably, there were nerves and an early pass towards Phil Foden which drifted out for a throw.There was one bit of confusion at the back when Burn blocked a cross from Qazim Laci. The  ball looped into the air and Burn headed the ball out for the corner with Pickford not calling for the ball and seeming unsure whether to try and collect it.Just before half-time, Burn hammered a header against the bar from Declan Rice’s corner and for two defenders to score on their debuts would have been a record breaker.Burn started the second half by booting Myrto Uzini in the head and then slipped badly to allow Albania space to attack but they failed to make the most of it.Standing at 6 ft 7ins, Burn towers over most people and this was certainly the case with 5 ft 10 ins Lewis-Skelly next to him in Tuchel’s back four.The pair stood next to each other at  a SGP photo shoot during the week and, looking at Burn, Lewis-Skelly said: “Nah, this is too much! Oh my goodness. This is a joke.”Lewis-Skelly, born a couple of months after Italy won the 2006 World Cup in Germany, is not known for his goalscoring and had only managed six for Arsenal, and that also includes under-18s and Premier League Two.But he took his goal superbly and played with confidence throughout even though he did seem under orders not to wander too deep into enemy territory unless it was totally necessary.On this evidence, we might not see too much more of Burn but that is certainly not the case for MLS. More

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      Thomas Tuchel keeps promise and doesn’t sing national anthem before his first England game vs Albania

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      THOMAS TUCHEL stuck to his promise of not singing the England national anthem – after vowing to first earn the right.The German takes charge of his first game in charge of the Three Lions against Albania at Wembley.Thomas Tuchel stuck to his promise of not signing the England national anthemAnd Tuchel stayed silent during the national anthem before the match. But it should come as no surprise after the former Chelsea manager – who won the Champions League with the Blues – warned of his intentions. Speaking before the game, he said: “I feel that it is not just a given. You cannot just sing it. That’s why I decided that I will not sing it in my first matches.”I think, first of all, you have a very powerful, emotional and meaningful national anthem and I could not be more proud to be on the sidelines and be in charge of the English national team.READ MORE IN football “It means everything. It means a lot to me, I can assure you, but I can feel because it is that meaningful and it is that emotional and it is so powerful, the national anthem, that I have to earn my right to sing it.”Maybe I have to dive more into the culture and earn my right from you, from the players, from the supporters, so everyone feels like ‘he should sing it now, he’s one of our own, he’s the English manager, he should sing it’.”Tuchel returned to the dugout for the first time since leaving his role as Bayern Munich boss in the summer of 2024. And he admitted before England’s World Cup qualifier: “It’s a big occasion. I’m a bit nervous, but more excited and happy we get the journey going.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSEngland ratings vs Albania as Lewis-Skelly enjoys dream debut but Tuchel fails to solve Foden issue By Tom BarclayMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY made history and Harry Kane extended his own record-breaking as England sunk Albania in Thomas Tuchel’s first game.Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to score on his Three Lions debut and top goal-getter Kane notched his 70th international strike as Tuchel began his World Cup qualifying campaign with a modest 2-0 win.New boy Dan Burn partnered Ezri Konsa in central defence at Wembley, while Marcus Rashford and Curtis Jones were also handed starts.Meanwhile, Tuchel wrestled with the same issue faced by predecessor Sir Gareth Southgate – deciding where to fit in Phil Foden.Left-back Lewis-Skelly, 18, slotted home on 20 minutes following a delightful turn and even better pass from Jude Bellingham.But England stuttered after the break – until skipper Kane classily took down a Declan Rice pass and curved home the clincher.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions in German manager Tuchel’s opening match…Tuchel’s first starting 11 included nine Premier League players with only Kyle Walker and Jude Bellingham playing abroad.And Tuchel told his side: “Bring the energy that we can have and that the Premier League has.Emotional moment Myles Lewis-Skelly’s family spotted going wild in Wembley crowd”Play on the front foot, try play aggressive and attacking football. We need to be aware defensively as they have good footballers.”Tuchel watched on as Myles Lewis-Skelly became England youngest-ever debut scorer while Harry Kane wrapped up a 2-0 win. Thomas Tuchel during his first game in chargeCredit: Getty More