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      Should Gareth stay or go? Piers Morgan and Tony Parsons go head to head to argue for and against the England boss’ exit

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      AFTER England’s gut-wrenching 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, fans and pundits were quick to weigh-in on whether Gareth Southgate should stay or go.Legends like Rio Ferdinand slammed Southgate’s “conservative” approach while Gary Lineker took a brutal swipe after England once again fell short in a final.Gareth Southgate applauds fans after England’s heartbreaking defeat to Spain in the Euro finalCredit: GettyPressure mounted on the England boss throughout the tournamentCredit: GettyHowever, some supporters called for the Three Lions boss to be knighted after turning English football around and restoring a nation’s pride.Here, our heavyweight columnists Piers Morgan and Tony Parsons argue for and against Southgate’s future as England manager.GO! says Piers MorganGareth should go, says Piers, but with his head held high and our sincere gratitudeWhen Gareth Southgate was appointed England manager in 2016, I took the news well.”There is a legion of better managers than Gareth Southgate in the world,” I raged on Talksport. “The objective should be dragging the England team out of its abyss and dragging us kicking and screaming – under the tutelage of a brilliant, dynamic new manager – into the next phase of our existence. Instead, we’ve gone for the easy option, the cheap option by the strict criteria of: he’s got to be English and barely useless, and I don’t get it.’READ MORE ON SOUTHGATEThen I added for good bile-laden measure: “I only know Southgate as the guy who starred in pizza adverts when England were humiliated in the past.”Ouch. Suffice it to say, Gareth proved me spectacularly wrong.He created a team in his own cool, calm, collected image, developed a fantastic team spirit with his players, and has performed better in major international tournaments than any manager of our national side other than World Cup-winning Sir Alf Ramsey.Most read in Euro 2024But when the final whistle blew in Berlin’s Olympiastadion stadium last night, it felt like the right moment to say goodbye to Gareth.I was there, with two of my sons, to watch England come up short, again, against Spain.England fans thank Southgate as England boss rumoured to step down following Euros defeatAnd none of us was enraged.Disappointed, yes.Angry, no.Truthfully, for all our bullish ‘It’s Coming Home!’ social media posts, we knew in our hearts it probably wasn’t.Why?Because for all his ‘safe-pair-of-hands’ positives, the problem with Gareth, ironically, is that he’s just too safe.This very talented squad of players should have been ordered to play with far more attacking flair through this tournament, as Spain did.Put someone like Jurgen Klopp or Alex Ferguson in charge of these guys, managers with a love of rampaging flamboyance and with in-built desire to entertain, and we’d have won it just as we’d have won the last Euros too.I think Gareth knows he’s reached the end.He’s been neither hero, nor halfwitPiers MorganHe’s seemed pricklier, and more defensive, about media criticism than I’ve ever seen him, and I suspect it’s just the aggro of the job finally getting to him.A year into his tenure, we met at a GQ awards night, and he was very friendly given how rude I’d been about him. “How’s the world’s most difficult, thankless job going?” I asked.”It’s… interesting!” he chuckled.”What’s been the biggest surprise?””When you’re an England player, you return to your club after a game and the focus moves to that. But when you’re England manager, the media attention, criticism and pressure never stops.” “You realise,” I said, “that unless you win a trophy, you’ll be mocked, abused, deemed a failure and unceremoniously sacked.””I do, yes Piers… thanks for reminding me, though!”We met again before the Euros 2020 final.”It’s a fine line between hero and halfwit in your job,” I observed, “do you really believe we can be European Champions?””Yes,” he replied, emphatically.But sadly, he hasn’t won it, despite getting to two finals.He’s been neither hero, nor halfwit.Just a good guy who gave us a team that’s done us proud on, and off, the pitch. Gareth should resign to let someone else try to reach the summit, but he should go with his head held high, and our sincere gratitude. STAY! says Tony ParsonsNo former England manager has Southgate’s kind of record, says Tony, not even Alf RamseySHOULD Gareth stay or should Southgate go?I can’t be the only England fan who is torn.One part of me – my heart – wants Southgate to walk away.Not because he has failed but because I am sick of seeing this decent, thoughtful and SUCCESSFUL England manager being abused by beer-chucking fans, armchair experts and yesterday’s men like Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer.Gareth Southgate did not fail.The other part of me – my head – passionately wants Gareth to stay because he is without doubt the most successful England manager since Sir Alfred Ramsey.He steered England to their only two tournament finals since 1966 and he did it over the last three years.He took us to our first final ever on foreign soil.And not even Ramsey managed that.Yes, in those two finals we were beaten by Italy in 2021 and Spain on Sunday night.Southgate sticks with players – like Harry Kane – when a more cold-hearted manager – a Pep, a Fergie – would consign them to the knacker’s yardTony ParsonsUnlike our final against Italy, the best team won. And this is sport – remember?How can we bitch and whine when the best team wins?But goodness me, how people whine and bitch when it comes to Gareth Southgate.I think it is his demeanour that invites the toxic inventive.I believe it is because he speaks in a calm, measured tone – so totally unlike the raving maniac managers we see foaming at themouth every week in the Premier League.Southgate is a cautious man. He stick with players – like Harry Kane – when a more cold-hearted manager – a Pep, a Fergie – would consign them to the knacker’s yard.But I don’t want Southgate to stay because he is a good guy.I want him to take us to the 2026 World Cup for one reason only – his record.He gets England deep into tournaments.Apart from the two Euros finals, he took us to the semi-final of the World Cup in Russia, against Croatia, and a World Cup quarter-final in Qatar, when we went out after Harry missed a penalty against France.No former England manager has that kind of record.Not even Alf Ramsey.READ MORE SUN STORIESSouthgate’s England are frequently derided for their cautious, joyless football. And like every other armchair expert, I would love to see them off the leash and running riot.I see no evidence that there is a manager alive who can conceivably improve open Gareth Southgate’s record. More

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      Gareth Southgate’s greatest England wins and most shattering defeats in rollercoaster tenure with Three Lions

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE’s rollercoaster spell as England boss has seen many twists and turns during his century of matches.The Euros final with Spain will hopefully be his crowning glory – and what a ride it has been.Gareth Southgate has reached a century of England matchesCredit: GettyHe and his waistcoat became national treasures back in 2018Credit: AFPSo far, he has been in charge for 101 games, with 61 wins under his belt and counting.Having taken over in late 2016, Southgate became a national hero – and style icon with his famous waistcoat – as he led the Three Lions to the 2018 World Cup semi-final.Three years later and he came with a penalty kick of becoming the first man since Sir Alf Ramsey in 1966 to lead England to glory.He guided our boys to the final of the European Championship, only to suffer penalty shootout heartbreak.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Any dreams of World Cup glory in 2022 came to an end in the quarters.But now it’s another Euros final, this time against Spain, in what many believe could be his last shot at securing silverware for the Three Lions.Here we take a look at his greatest wins and most crushing defeats at the helm:THE HIGHS…COLOMBIA 1-1 ENGLAND (3-4 ON PENS)This was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Most read in Euro 2024Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSPAIN 2-3 ENGLANDFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.The England squad celebrate after beating Colombia on penaltiesCredit: GettyRaheem Sterling fired England to a brilliant win in Spain in 2018Credit: GettyENGLAND 2-1 DENMARKSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.Harry Kane fired England to a first final since 1966 at the last EurosCredit: AFPBukayo Saka was on target as England brushed past Senegal in 2022Credit: GettyENGLAND 3-0 SENEGALEngland had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Declan Rice scored as England gained some revenge on Italy in March 2023Credit: APITALY 1-2 ENGLANDOn a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.ENGLAND 2-1 NETHERLANDSThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.England’s Ollie Watkins scores the winnerCredit: ReutersMeet England’s Euro 2024 WagsEngland Wags range from childhood sweethearts to recently blossoming love stories.Katie Goodland (Harry Kane’s wife)The fitness instructor has been married to the England captain since 2019 and joined him in Germany with their four children after he joined Bayern Munich.Laura Celia Valk (Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend)The stunning Dutch model, 25, has more than half a million Instagram followers and is said to be absolutely smitten with the Real Madrid star.Rebecca Cooke (Phil Foden’s girlfriend)Foden’s childhood sweetheart and the mother of his two kids tends to keep out of the spotlight, but is a regular at England games.Dani Dyer (Jarrod Bowen’s girlfriend)England’s most famous Wag, former Love Island winner and daughter of Eastenders’ Danny Dyer.Iris Law (Trent Alexander-Arnold’s girlfriend)Dani Dyer isn’t the only actor’s daughter dating an England star. Iris’ dad is Hollywood legend Jude Law.Megan Davison (Jordan Pickford’s wife)Megan has been with Pickford since he was 14 years old. The couple married in 2022 and have one son.Olivia Naylor (John Stones’ girlfriend)The 33-year-old former beautician has stepped back from her role after giving birth to a baby son.Read more about the Wags supporting England at Euro 2024 hereAND THE LOWS…CROATIA 2-1 ENGLANDHaving led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Mario Mandzukic celebrates the goal that ended England’s 2018 World Cup dreamCredit: GettyItaly beat England on penalties at Wembley to be crowned European championsCredit: AFPITALY 1-1 ENGLAND (3-2 PENS)Will probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.ENGLAND 0-4 HUNGARYA year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.Jude Bellingham and Marc Guehi looked stunned after Hungary thrashed EnglandCredit: GettyHarry Kane fired a penalty over the bar as France beat England 2-1 in QatarCredit: PAENGLAND 1-2 FRANCEAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.READ MORE SUN STORIESInstead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out.Euro 2024 final stadium is home to English football’s most shameful episodeGARETH SOUTHGATE and his players will walk in the footsteps of sporting infamy on Sunday.And they also have the chance to wipe out the memories of English football’s most shameful episode by replacing it with glorious triumph.For many, the Olympiastadion will always be the place where Jesse Owens humiliated Adolf Hitler in his own backyard.But the 1936 Olympics WERE used by the Nazis as pure propaganda, as a statement about the supposed supremacy of the “Aryan race”.The ghosts of those Games still flit between the towers and the colosseum-style architecture.Fans walking in on Sunday will see the plinth where the Olympic cauldron was lit by Fritz Schilgen – handpicked by propagandist film-maker Leni Riefenstahl – still there, high in the stands above one goal.And two years later, when the FA disgracefully ordered England’s players to raise their arm in the Nazi salute before beating Germany in a friendly, it seemed that the British state was implicitly accepting Hitler’s authority and power.The Three Lions have the opportunity to right that ancient wrong yet nothing can detract from the stadium’s place in the pantheon of sport’s darkest hours.Read the full story HERE. More

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      France star, 28, considering international retirement after playing only 15 minutes at Euro 2024

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      FRANCE star Kingsley Coman is considering international retirement after Euro 2024 at the age of 28.Coman has been part of Les Bleus’ senior squad ever since 2015 thanks to some impressive performances for the likes of Juventus and current club Bayern Munich.France star Kingsley Coman is considering international retirement at the age of 28Credit: AFPBayern Munich star Coman only managed 15 minutes during Euro 2024 for FranceCredit: AFPBut the winger only managed 15 minutes during the European Championships in Germany when he replaced Ousmane Dembele during the goalless draw with the Netherlands in the group stage.According to L’Equipe, the France international had a “bad experience” during the Euros, which “scarred” him.The same source claims Coman had put a lot of hard work into returning from a hamstring injury to claim a spot in Didier Deschamps’ squad.It has also been reported that the decision to keep Deschamps in charge for the 2026 World Cup may have contributed to the forward’s decision.Read More on FootballIf the Bayern star decides to hang up his boots then that won’t be the first time France see a player retire from international duty at such a young age.Raphael Varane also did the same at the age of 29 after the 2022 World Cup final that saw his team lose to Argentina.Coman has scored eight goals in 57 appearances for France.And despite his injury-stricken season, the Frenchman still managed five goals and three assists in 27 appearances across all competitions with Bayern.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFrance failed to impress during Euro 2024 despite making it to the semi-finals.Deschamps’ side was eliminated by Spain who now face England in the final on Sunday.Euro 2024’s sexiest players revealedFrance only managed one goal from open play during the entire tournament when Randal Kolo Muani scored against the Spaniards.Coman put a lot of hard work to return from an injury for Euro 2024 More

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      Supercomputer predicts Euro 2024 winner with England and Spain tipped for incredibly tight final

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      A SUPERCOMPUTER has predicted the winner of Euro 2024.England face Spain in the final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Sunday evening.A supercomputer has predicted the Euro 2024 finalCredit: GettyEngland take on Spain in the crunch matchCredit: GettyThe Three Lions booked their spot in the final with the dramatic win over Holland.Goals from Harry Kane and Ollie Watkins were enough to hand Gareth Southgate’s side victory despite Xavi Simons’ opener.It is the first time in history the men’s team has reached a final on foreign soil.Southgate also became the first manager to lead the team to two finals at major tournaments.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Spain reached the final by beating France in the first semi-final 2-1.Like England, the Spanish came from behind after Randal Kolo Muani’s goal.Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo were both on target as their goals led the team to victory.Bettingexpert’s supercomputer BETSiE has now simulated the final between England and Spain 100,000 times to find out who will win.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd it’s bad news for the Three Lions as it predicts Spain will lift the trophy.The supercomputer suggests Luis de la Fuente’s side has a 54.7 per cent chance of winning the match within 90 minutes.England fans gush ‘my manager’ as incredible footage emerges of Southgate going wild after reaching Euro 2024 final England vs Spain recordEngland have played Spain 27 times in total – here is a look at every result…May 1929, Spain 4-3 England – International Friendly (L)December 1931, England 7-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)July 1950, Spain 1-0 England – World Cup (L)May 1955, Spain 1-1 England – International Friendly (D)November 1955, England 4-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)May 1960, Spain 3-0 England – International Friendly (L)October 1960, England 4-2 Spain – International Friendly (W)December 1965, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)May 1967, England 2-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)April 1968, England 1-0 Spain – European Championship (W)May 1968, Spain 1-2 England – European Championship (W)March 1980, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)June 1980, England 2-1 Spain – European Championship (W)March 1981, England 1-2 Spain – International Friendly (L)July 1982, Spain 0-0 England – World Cup (D)February 1987, Spain 2-4 England – International Friendly (W)September 1992, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)June 1996, England 0(4)-(2)0 Spain – European Championship (W)February 2001, England 3-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2004, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)February 2007, England 0-1 Spain – International Friendly (L)February 2009, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2011, England 1-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2015, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2016, England 2-2 Spain – International Friendly (D)September 2018, England 1-2 Spain – Nations League (L)October 2018, Spain 2-3 England – Nations League (W)Overall, England have won 14, drawn three and lost 10 matches against Spain.England has only been given a 45.3 per cent chance of winning their first-ever Euros.To win the game inside 90 minutes the Spanish have been given a 35.44 per cent chance compared to England’s 32.94 per cent.This means that the supercomputer thinks that there is a 31.62 per cent chance the match will need at least extra time to find a winner.The simulation takes into account a number of different factors such as expected goals and expected assists.Spain have won the Euros three times in their history.The first championship came in 1964 before they went back to back in 2008 and 2012.A fourth title would see them become the most successful nation in the competition’s history.England ratings vs HollandENGLAND stormed into the final against Spain thanks to Ollie Watkins’ last-minute strike in the 2-1 win over Holland.It was a brilliant team performance, but how did each player rate?SunSport’s Tom Barclay ran the rule over Southgate’s boys, and here’s how he rated them.Jordan Pickford: 7Bigger goalkeepers may have got a stronger hand to Xavi Simons’ early stunner – though that was being hypercritical. Solid stop to deny Virgil van Dijk after the hour.Kyle Walker: 7Looked re-energised after some lumbering displays and bombed on at times in the first half, despite his role on the right of a back three. Last-ditch tackle on Cody Gakpo was spot on.John Stones: 7Strong in possession. He looks to have benefited from regular game-time after rarely featuring for Manchester City in the last few months.Marc Guehi: 6Came back into the side after suspension ruled him out of the Switzerland game. Had an unenviable task of making the big man Wout Weghorst after the break.Bukayo Saka: 7Razor-sharp in the first half, winning tackles, making runs and dribbling the ball proficiently. Less of an impact after the break, had a goal ruled out for offside and was booked.Declan Rice: 6Lost possession for Simons’ thunderous opener but grew into the game, mopping up where necessary. Poor pass when Kane was open midway through the second half.Kobbie Mainoo: 8Was England’s youngest-ever player to play in a major-tournament semi-final, aged 19years 82 days, and had a stormer in the first half. Great bursts forward, vital tackles, and his interplay with Foden was a joy.Kieran Trippier: 6We all know by now that he is playing out of position, so again he was limited going forward and reliable defensively. Subbed at half-time for the more natural Shaw.Phil Foden: 7The first 45 minutes was by far and away his best half of the tournament. Thought he’d scored when his shot was cleared off the line by Denzel Dumfries, and cracked the post with a cracker. But was then surprisingly subbed.Jude Bellingham: 5Back at the ground where he made his name but struggled to make much of an impact on his old stomping ground. Fortunate it was not he that was subbed.Harry Kane: 6Won and dispatched the penalty to go joint top-scorer in the tournament with three goals. Had looked more mobile initially but still tired badly after the break and was taken off.SUBSLuke Shaw (for Kieran Trippier, half-time): 6Looked assured for a man who has been out for so long.Ollie Watkins (for Harry Kane, 81): 9 and STAR MAN Surprisingly given the nod over Ivan Toney as striker sub as Southgate looked for more pace in behind. Brilliant finish into the corner to win the game – you could not ask more from him.Cole Palmer (for Phil Foden, 81): 7Had his big chance in the final minutes but shanked it horribly wide – but then fed Watkins for his wonderful winner.Gareth Southgate: 8His switch to a back three against Switzerland helped dig out the win there, and here it had his team finally playing some great football in the first half. The team went into their shells again as the game wore on and you feared the worst – but you have to say his decision to bring on Ollie Watkins was a masterstroke.  More

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      Fans all crack the same joke about new Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson’s second job

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      FANS have all made the same joke after realising an interesting fact about the new Rep of Ireland gaffer. The FAI made the surprise appointment this afternoon, after first getting approval from the Association’s board, with the Association stating that he was their No. 1 candidate. Heimir Hallgrímsson was today announced as the new Republic of Ireland ManagerHeimir Hallgrimsson is actually a trained dentistICELAND TOPPLE ENGLAND 🇮🇸OTD in 2016, Iceland—population 300,000—came from a goal down to beat England 2-1 & make the Euro quarterfinals on debut. 😱Engineered by dentist manager Heimir Hallgrimsson, is this international football’s greatest upset? 🤔pic.twitter.com/y6ao6KrzLg— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) June 27, 2024

      The Icelandic gaffer was named boss in shock appointment following chaotic eight-month recruitment process by the asscociation.And on news of the former Jamaica and Iceland bosses’ appointment, fans took to social media as some realised that the Hallgrímsson is actually a trained dentist.Plenty took to X as they weighed in on the shock appointment with some hilarious comments. One said: “Let’s hope watching the team isn’t like pulling teeth.”Another posted: “He is only filling in.”While a third commented: “Let’s hope he shows his teeth in the dressingroom.”He is best known as being the man in charge during Iceland’s golden age as they reached the Euro 2016 quarterfinals, knocking out England, and then the 2018 World Cup. The 57-year-old was overjoyed after news was made public of his appointment.Most read in FootballFAI make gorgeous gesture to John O’Shea in honour of him being named interim Ireland managerHallgrimsson said: “It is an honour to be appointed Head Coach of the Ireland Senior Men’s National Team. “Ireland is rightly a proud footballing nation which has consistently produced talented players and enjoyed many memorable moments at major international tournaments.“We have a young and exciting team that has genuine potential.”I am looking forward to working closely with the players to help coach and guide them towards improved performances and results ensuring we qualify and compete at major tournaments on a regular basis. “We have important and exciting games coming up in the UEFA Nations League later this year and a massive FIFA World Cup qualification campaign coming up next year.“Finally, I am also looking forward to getting to know the people of Ireland and in particular the wonderful fans of Irish football.”It is my responsibility to coach, prepare and develop our team as best as possible to deliver results on the pitch and to make.”The former Iceland and Jamaica manager takes charge of the Ireland, with his first game against England on September 7. More

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      Unemployed former Premier League manager tipped to replace Gareth Southgate after Euro 2024

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      MICHAEL OWEN has tipped Graham Potter to replace Gareth Southgate as England manager.The former Liverpool and Manchester United striker believes that Euro 2024 will be Southgate’s last in charge of the Three Lions.Michael Owen has tipped Graham Potter to replace Gareth SouthagteCredit: ReutersSouthgate has been in charge of England since 2016Credit: GettyPotter has been out of work since being sacked by ChelseaCredit: PAOwen, 44, has suggested that after the tournament there will be a “natural parting” between the boss and England.He has suggested that Potter, 49, would be a good choice be the FA to take up the job.The Englishman has been out of work since he was sacked by Chelsea in 2023.However, he had been hailed for his previous work at Brighton and Hove Albion, Swansea City and Swedish outfit Ostersund.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Owen told CSGOLuck: “I could imagine with Southgate that there will be a natural parting no matter what the result. If we win it, Southgate’s had a fair crack at it, he’s enjoyed it but he might even be ready for a change himself.”The general feeling among fans in England has been that this is his last tournament.”A lot of people are frustrated with the cautious approach. I just think it may be an occasion whereby it’s best for everyone, he might want a break or have a crack at club management.”I would say if we win or not, Southgate will be looking at life after England.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”There is not an outstanding candidate to take over if Southgate goes. I personally am of the opinion that we should stick to an English manager, that’s what international football is about.”In fact I would almost go as far as to say there should be a rule change. You are playing for your country, the players are going to be from that country.Gareth Southgate admits England stars gripped by fear of Euro 2024 failure – but reveals huge change in last matchGareth Southgate vs Graham Potter managerial recordGareth SouthgateMiddlesbrough, June 2006 – October 2009P151 W45 D43 L63 Win percentage 29.8%England U21, August 2013 – September 2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage 72.97%England, September 2016 – PresentP110 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage 60%Overall: P156 W81 D44 L71 Win Percentage 41.3%Graham PotterÖstersunds, December 2011 – June 2018P224 W109 D56 L59 Win percentage 48.6%Swansea City, June 2018 – May 2019P51 W21 D11 L19 Win percentage 41.1%Brighton and Hove Albion, May 2019 – September 2022P134 W43 D43 L48 Win Percentage 32%Chelsea, September 2022 – April 2023P31 W12 D8 L11 Win percentage 38.7%Overall: P440 W185 D118 L137 Win Percentage 42%”In club football you can have any player or coach from any country but I think when you’re playing for your country it should be Scottish managers, Scottish players and Scottish physios.”That’s the point. Same with France. That’s the point of international football.”It’s not a rule but I would have that principle and would like England to have an English manager. I think possibly the one manager free and available is Graham Potter, who may take it.”Owen has also suggested names like Steve Cooper, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard.However his ideal choice would be Eddie Howe but due to his position at Newcastle, he sees Potter as more likely.He added: “Apart from him, I think Steve Cooper is a good manager, Frank Lampard and Gerrard would have been tipped in the past but they probably need to do well in their current jobs to be back in the fold maybe.”Eddie Howe I really see as a top manager but he’s employed at the moment. As things stand, if Southgate were to leave tomorrow I’d probably say Potter.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Gary Lineker has tipped Lampard to take over the job.The BBC pundit believes that the Chelsea legend would get immediate respect and would be tactically capable.Inside Jordan Pickford’s penalty saving technique as he bids to be England’s Euros heroJORDAN PICKFORD has regularly been the hero when it comes to a penalty shootout for his country, writes Jon Boon.The England and Everton goalkeeper, 30, saved Manuel Akanji’s effort for Switzerland to hand the Three Lions an advantage in their shootout win in their Euro 2024 quarter-final.Now, with the help of Goalkeeper.com, we’ve uncovered Pickford’s penalty-saving technique.USES HISTORIC TRENDSPickford is well prepared when it comes to facing the ball from 12-yards.His water bottle trick has become infamous with the list of penalty takers and direction of shot taped on to it.But you cannot always listen blindly to most probable placements, and a goalkeeper’s intuition should also play a role.That human element remains important.UTILISES A MIXED STRATEGYBeing a goalkeeper is often called the ‘loneliest job’ in the world.And when it comes to penalties, your team-mates are solely reliant upon your strategy to save one.Often, we’ve seen goalies who prefer to favour one side – and continuously dive one way.However, Pickford adopts a mixed strategy.Sometimes, he will dive to the power side – saving from Jorginho in the Euro 2020 final.His save from Akanji in the Swiss shootout was made on the placement side.TECHNICAL EXECUTION OF DIVEGoalkeepers are hindered during penalty shootouts – with the Fifa rulebook meaning they have to stay on the line until the shot is taken.That means the lift off of your dive has to be executed a certain way.Pickford launches himself from his back foot behind the line, pushes his body weight forwards, makes no large negative step and keeps both hands active to make the save.This was put into effect when he made saves from Italy’s Andrea Belotti in 2020 and Colombia’s Carlos Bacca at the 2018 World Cup.France’s Mike Maignan, by comparison, takes a large negative step, and struggles to reach his posts.CLUB VS COUNTRY METRICSInterestingly, Pickford is better at saving penalties in shootouts for England than in his overall career average, and better at saving in shootouts vs in game.Clearly, Pickford performs better in an England shirt and when there is bigger pressure.Read our full analysis of Jordan Pickford’s penalty-saving techniques… More

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      Teddy Sheringham backs England to beat Netherlands like he did in 1996 – then go on to WIN Euro 2024

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      TEDDY Sheringham is backing England to stage a repeat of his best-ever game — and avenge Dutch manager Ronald Koeman.Striker Teddy scored twice and was man of the match in the 4-1 win over the Netherlands at Wembley in Euro 96.Sheringham is backing England to beat Netherlands in Euro 2024, above celebrating his goalCredit: GettyKyle Walker, Luke Shaw, Ivan Toney, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Pickford celebrate after England’ beat Switzerland on penalties in their Euro 2024 quarter-finalCredit: GettyEngland will be hoping Jude Bellingham can continue his goalscoring form against the NetherlandsEngland’s stats from Euro 2024 show concede on average 10 shots per gameEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYHe believes Gareth Southgate’s squad will go one better than his 1996 pals — and get to the final.Teddy, 58, said a triumph in tonight’s semi-final in Dortmund would also be long-awaited revenge on Koeman, who famously robbed England of qualification for the 1994 World Cup.Koeman pulled back David Platt when he was through on goal in the 1993 qualifier. But the referee failed to show him a deserved red card, and he then banged in a free kick at the other end minutes later, ending English hopes of getting to the US. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL Teddy said: “Koeman scored the free kick when he should have been sent off — it was very obvious.“I don’t think we were playing great football but still didn’t deserve to lose like that and it hasn’t been forgotten. “So it’d be sweet revenge if we could beat his team.”Teddy, was the stand-out star when England outclassed the fancied Dutch in 1996 after struggling in the tournament.Most read in Euro 2024He believes the current squad — which have been similarly criticised — can repeat their feat. Teddy, who shone alongside the likes of Alan Shearer and Paul Gascoigne, said: “I think our top players will come alive just like we did in 96.England ace Teddy Sheringham reveals what REALLY happened behind the scenes at Euro 1996“They’ve had to grind out results all through this tournament — this could be the time when our stars perform. “That’s what top players do and we’ve got a few in our camp. “It was the same against Holland in 96 when we knew we had to play exceptionally well to beat them.“A lot of our top players stepped up to the plate that night and this team can do the same with players like Kane, Bellingham and Foden.”The father of three, who predicts a 1-0 England win tonight, still gets asked about the disguised pass he laid on for Shearer to lash one in.Teddy, talking to The Sun thanks to Crypto Sports Betting, said: “Lots of people around the world mention that.”They can’t believe I didn’t shoot.” He said Shearer would never have passed but added: “I got as much satisfaction from watching that one fly in as I would if I’d scored.”It comes as England fans are set to be hugely outnumbered by the Orange Army tonight after being rocked by flight, hotel and ticket prices. Authorities estimate 30,000 lionhearts will be in Dortmund, with up to 80,000 Dutch supporters.Teddy is mobbed after scoring against Holland in 1996Credit: GettyTeddy, above with wife Kristina, believes Gareth Southgate’s squad will reach the final of Euro 2024Credit: GettyScott Fairbank saw England’s quarter-final with wife Sam and daughter Freya, 13, but cancelled plans to watch the semi. Their decision to stay on in Dusseldorf for two extra nights cost £1,600.Scott, 43, from Sheffield, said: “They ripped our eyes out with the price of those rooms — and they’re somewhat basic.“But we fell in love with the whole experience.”Brothers Denny and Ronnie Lovett from Dartford, Kent, are stunned by the resale price of tickets. Lift engineer Ronnie, 19, said: “We’re seeing tickets online for £5,500 plus fees. READ MORE SUN STORIES“We can’t pay that.”TEDDY spoke to The Sun in association with https://cryptosportsbetting.ltd.Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo has been the star for the NetherlandsThe Dutch have averaged 1.8 goals per game in GermanyThe front page of Wednesday morning’s Sun More

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      in Soccer

      Gareth Southgate should do the unthinkable ahead of England’s Euro 2024 semi-final – Harry Kane is absolutely knackered

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE built this era of consistent English success on ruthlessness.Now can the England manager make the boldest selection call of all by benching his captain and all-time record goalscorer Harry Kane for Wednesday’s Euros semi-final against the Netherlands.Gareth Southgate should have a frank chat with skipper Harry KaneCredit: AlamyIvan Toney’s great self-confidence, as shown by his shootout penalty against Switzerland, makes him a strong candidate to startCredit: AlamyBecause Kane needs a rest and England need a different option at centre-forward.Kane is not fully fit and he hasn’t been all tournament. The captain and manager can keep denying it until they are blue in the face — but it is glaringly obvious.Kane, 30, is nowhere near peak sharpness and it is affecting England’s performances.Southgate started his reign by thinking the unthinkable and binning off his captain and all-time leading scorer Wayne Rooney.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Could he now do the same,  temporarily, with Kane?It is doubtful, given Southgate’s stubborn refusal to make significant team changes during tournaments.And a record of four quarter-finals in a row — including three semi-finals — suggests this policy has served him pretty damned well.But whether it is the ongoing effects of a back problem suffered at the tail end of the domestic season, or simply burnout and exhaustion, Kane is lumbering and, as an attacking force, England are slumbering.Most read in FootballKane struggled to make an impact in Saturday’s Euro quarter-finalEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYSouthgate may be loyal to a fault but even he admitted his skipper was not “flowing” after Saturday’s shootout triumph over Switzerland. The Three Lions chief replaced a struggling Kane with Ivan Toney in extra-time.England’s record goalscorer has lacked his usual sharpness in the tournamentTom Barclay England Player RatingsEngland player ratings: Saka the saviour for Three Lions but subbed Kane stuggles in penalties thriller vs SwitzerlandBUKAYO SAKA showed huge courage as he dug England out of a hole and through on penalties against Switzerland, writes Tom Barclay.The Three Lions looked to be going out when Breel Embolo had put Swiss ahead on 75 minutes.But Arsenal star Saka dragged England back into five minutes later with a stunning effort off the post.To penalties it went – just like it did between these two sides five years ago in the Nations League.And just like back then, Jordan Pickford made a save – repelling the Swiss’s first effort from Manuel Akanji.England were perfect from then on, with Cole Palmer, Jude Bellignam, Saka, Ivan Toney and finally Trent Alexander-Arnold sending the Three Lions into the semi-final.Here’s how the players rated…Jordan Pickford: 7Had his heart in his mouth when Xherdan Shaqiri’s corner deep into extra-time hit the post and bar, but then pulled off a smart stop to take it to penalties.Saved Manuel Akanji’s first spot-kick by diving low to his left.Kyle Walker: 6Spent most of the game on the right side of a three which meant he could not get forward. Embolo got in front of him for Switzerland’s opener. Won the toss so the penalties were taken in front of the England fans.John Stones: 6Crisper passing in the first half, much better than his sloppy Slovakia display, but his deflection on Dan Ndoye’s cross diverted it to Embolo.Ezri Konsa: 6Was decent in the first half of his maiden start at a major tournament but, like the rest of the team, went into his shell after the break.Kieran Trippier: 6Had been expected to play right wing-back but was once again on the left.Solid defensively but, as has been the case throughout the tournament, offered little going forward on his unnatural side.Declan Rice: 7Anticipated, and subsequently, won a number of 50-50s at the base of England’s midfield.It was his decoy run that opened up the space for Saka to find the corner, before his 25-yard wonderstrike was denied by a flying Yann Sommer save in extra-time.Kobbie Mainoo: 6Some decent drives forward from midfield. Looked as if he would fire home an opener just before the break afterBukayo Saka’s nice cutback, but was denied by Granit Xhaka’s excellent block.Bukayo Saka: 8 and STAR MANDid not play at left wing-back as expected, but was England’s most dangerous attacking player throughout – and none more so when he came to the rescue with his 80th-minute leveller which flew in off the post.Showed huge courage in the shoot-out as he stroked home his penalty beautifully, three years on from missing in the last Euros final.Jude Bellingham: 6Produced a few graceful dribbles which showcased his quality in the first half but pretty quiet.Looked knackered but showed big cojones with his low penalty.Phil Foden: 6Admitted before the game that his central role would suit him better and it seemed to in the first 20 minutes, but faded after that.Harry Kane: 4This system just does not suit him. He needs runners, but does not look like he is going to get them.Just could not get into the game and was subbed out of it in extra-time, seconds after he was sent crashing into his manager on the touchline.SUBSCole Palmer (for Konsa, 78): 7One of three players to come on in reaction to Switzerland’s opener – why did it take so long, Gareth? Dispatched England’s first spot-kick with aplomb.Luke Shaw (for Trippier, 78): 6First minutes of football since February, slotting in on the left side of back three as Southgate went for broke.Eberechi Eze (for Mainoo, 78): 6Carved out a nice bit of space for himself in the dying moments but fired wide.Ivan Toney (For Kane, 109): 7It was no surprise to see him come with the prospect of penalties on the horizon – what was more of a shock was that it was for spot-kick maestro Kane. Was knocked over in the box right at the end of extra-time, but nothing was given. Confident penalty.Trent Alexander-Arnold (for Foden, 115): 7Thrown on late into extra-time. Belted home his spot-kick to win it.Gareth Southgate: 4The adjusted back three system worked to a certain extent, but still the approach looked to be to keep it tight and rely on a moment of magic.Saka provided that for the leveller, but given the talent at his disposal, it seemed very limited.Took an age to make a change – prompted only by Switzerland going ahead. But got his subs right when it came to the penalty shoot-out.And Southgate said: “I thought he [Kane] did a super job for the team in terms of defensively, his positioning, his understanding of where he needed to be.“He’s perhaps not flowing as he’s arriving in those deeper areas — but he’s still playing an immense part for the group.”Kane might be running on empty but  everybody at these Euros is tired. Even the press box resembles some sort of zombie apocalypse.Those following England can only  recall fragments of a life before Southgate’s team started grinding out these results.Few of Europe’s leading stars  are peaking here and many are running on fumes. Yet even in this environment, Kane sticks out as being absolutely cream-crackered.During Saturday’s game, England needed an outlet as the Swiss pinned them back before Breel Embolo’s opener but Kane didn’t have the legs to provide it.He is not winning enough aerial duels, has been way off target with a couple of headed chances and against Switzerland his touch count was again worryingly low, just 26.It is not just about bald stats. Strikers can be sharp and score goals with relatively little involvement but that is not the case with Kane at this tournament, despite two poacher’s strikes.Kane has 65 goals in 96 international games and bagged 44 in an exceptional maiden Bayern Munich campaign.Those records are extraordinary and it’s no wonder the idea of dropping him is such a sacred cow.The Three Lions need more impact from Kane than stats like thisKane looked tired vs Switzerland before being taken off in extra timeCredit: RexIdeally, Kane would be honest enough to admit he is struggling.Yet all great goalscorers need egos — a selfish streak is part of the job spec. And for a player who has, infamously, never won a trophy to offer himself up for a rest at the semi-final stage is almost unthinkable.But England needn’t rely on Kane to such an extent that they have to play him when half-fit.Just before his substitution  against the Swiss, Kane was barged into the England dugout by Manuel Akanji and fell into Southgate’s arms, utterly shattered.Even with penalties looming, Southgate knew his captain’s race was run.Any England shootout win  is still greeted with an element of disbelief in a nation haunted by defeats in such cruel circumstances.But that England were perfect from the spot, without their regular penalty-taker, made victory all  the more remarkable.Southgate knows his history and made a point of telling his squad about 1966 and how England’s goalscoring talisman, Jimmy Greaves, was injured in the final group match and replaced by Geoff Hurst.Fifty-eight years later, another legendary Tottenham goalscorer is struggling for fitness. Could Toney, or even Ollie Watkins, become the Hurst of 2024?Ollie Watkins had a brilliant club season but it was fellow frontman Toney who came on to make a big impression with his confidenceCredit: RexThere will surely be no hat-trick in the final — England simply aren’t that sort of team.But while Watkins had a far more impressive club season than Toney, it is the Brentford man’s supreme self-belief which singles him out as the player who should start against the Dutch.The game against Holland will be different to any of England’s previous five at this tournament.It will be the first time Southgate’s side will face a team who are not set up primarily to defend.After Saturday’s win, Southgate was bombarded with questions from foreign journalists about England’s poor entertainment value.How can a team with so much attacking talent be turned into  a dull, plodding side relying on  a dogs-of-war, never-say-die spirit to get through?Perhaps it has much to do  with Kane. When the focal point of the attack is not functioning, the likes of Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham suffer, too.Kane was struggling for fitness at the start of the last Euros  and was hauled off in a goalless group-stage draw with Scotland — as he was in the miserable 1-1 draw with Denmark this time.Three years ago, Kane got into his stride and came good, scoring four times in the knockout stage as England reached the final.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe hope was that something similar would happen here in Germany — but that hope is fading now.It is time for Southgate to think the unthinkable again. More