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    England fans forced to cheer on TWO Euro 2024 minnows to prevent Three Lions getting nightmare draw

    ENGLAND topping Group C at Euro 2024 has seen them placed on the opposite side of the draw to a number of heavyweights.Spain, Germany, Portugal and France do not stand in the way of the Three Lions’ route to the final.England face face an anxious wait to see who they will face in the last 16Credit: GettyThe Netherlands would be a stern testCredit: RexBut a huge stumbling block could potentially lie in wait in the last 16.Gareth Southgate’s side are most likely to come up against the Netherlands.England will face the Dutch or whoever finishes third in Group E in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.Romania, Belgium, Slovakia and Ukraine are all on three points going into today’s 5pm fixtures.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSBut it is actually the results in Group F at 8pm which most affect the Three Lions.England will face the Netherlands unless the Czech Republic beat Turkey or Georgia topple Portugal.Turkey, the Czechs and Georgia can all finish third in Group F and if they do that with three points or more, they would leapfrog Hungary in the third-placed standings.That would leave England playing whoever finishes third in group E.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSData Analysts Nielsen Gracenote have ranked the chances of England facing the five teams as; Netherlands (61% per cent), Slovakia (16 per cent), Ukraine (11 per cent), Romania (8 per cent) and Belgium (4 per cent).Whoever England face, Jack Wilshere wants Southgate to unleash Kobbie Mainoo.Play Foden & Bellingham centrally & go for it! | Jack Wilshere’s plan to win the EurosHe told SunSport: “I still feel that it was harsh on Conor Gallagher that he was taken off at half time.”Firstly because it was probably our best half of the tournament.”And secondly, because it didn’t feel like a Gareth Southgate thing to do.”It will knock Gallagher’s confidence for sure.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY”He will have thought that this was his chance, but he only gets a half.”Having said that, despite the disappointing result, the second half was better and Mainoo proved he is the man – or boy – to play there in future.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He’s only 19 but he understands the game so well and knows what it needs.”He is better on the ball than Gallagher and he also allowed Declan Rice to get forward even more in the second half than he had in the first.”England player ratings: Southgate’s Gallagher experiment fails miserably vs SloveniaENGLAND served up another underwhelming performance – but still managed to top Group C.England dominated the ball, but Southgate will have plenty of questions to answer after a third straight display that lacked inspiration.SunSport’s Tom Barclay has given his ratings of the England players.Jordan Pickford – 6Largely a spectator due to England’s dominance on the ball. Asked the touchline what the Denmark score was during one break in the second half.Kieran Trippier – 6The one positive of having a right-footed player playing left-back is that he can dispatch in-swinging crosses, and one such one should have been headed home by Conor Gallagher before the break.Marc Guehi – 7Cruyff turn early doors showed his confidence from excellent displays against Serbia and Denmark, and barring one loose pass was good again.John Stones – 6One of many to miss his target with his passing. He wasn’t bad but, like others, way off what he has produced for his club.Kyle Walker – 5Played so safe, rarely looked to get forward. Was lucky at one point that Pickford was alive to his blast of a pass-back. Sliced cross after break summed up his off-night.Conor Gallagher – 4Got the nod after the Trent Alexander-Arnold midfield experiment ended, but was poor, particularly, in possession and replaced at half-time by Kobbie Mainoo.Declan Rice – 7Had promised an “in your face” performance from his team, but he was really the only one to produce it. Very good out of possession, much better than against Denmark.Phil Foden – 7Liveliest of England’s attacking four by a mile and went close with a stinging free-kick. Booked for dissent, summing up England’s frustration.Jude Bellingham – 5Cut a very frustrated figure as he and Harry Kane got in each other’s way at times, while he was often shunted wide left as Phil Foden moved into the middle.Bukayo Saka – 6Tapped home on 20 minutes, but it was ruled out for offside in the build-up. OK but once again subbed after the break, perhaps due to fitness concerns.Harry Kane – 6Insists he is 100 per cent fit and maybe he is. What is 100 per cent certain is that he has been nowhere near as effective in this tournament as he usually is for England, albeit he was marginally better here.SubstitutesKobbie Mainoo (for Gallagher at half-time) – 7Made a difference when coming on, making England much more positive in their play. So much more confident with his touch than Gallagher.Cole Palmer (for Bukayo Saka on 71) – 7Finally made an appearance at this tournament and one clever ball through for Mainoo showed what he can do.Trent Alexander-Arnold (for Kieran Trippier on 84) – 6Came on for the final few minutes at right-back, with Walker going to left-back.Anthony Gordon (for Phil Foden on 88) – 6Like Palmer, first minutes at the Euros, but too late to make an impact. More

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    ‘How poetic’ – Scotland fans brutally trolled over anti-England chant after Steve Clarke’s bizarre Argentine ref rant

    ODE dear! England fans reckon their Scottish counterparts suffered “poetic” justice with a controversial Euro 2024 exit.Steve Clarke blasted the use of an Argentinian referee after the Tartan Army were denied a “100 per cent” penalty in Hungary’s 1-0 win.Scotland fans sung and danced to taunt England over Diego Maradona’s notorious role in the Three Lions’ 1986 World Cup quarter-finals exitSteve Clarke is sure Scotland were wrongly denied a penaltyBut some Three Lions’ supporters claimed the Scottish misfortune was “karma”.That’s because just days earlier Tartan Army followers in Munich had chanted their joy at England’s notorious 1986 World Cup quarter-final defeat against Argentina.The Scots spiced up the Hokey-Cokey with the line: “Oh, Diego Maradona. He put the English out, out, out!”Maradona’s wrongly-allowed “Hand of God” goal set Argentina up for a 2-1 victory on the way to winning the tournament in Mexico almost 38 years ago to the day. READ MORE EURO 2024 NEWSAnd a fellow countryman of the Napoli legend also had a contentious role as Scotland again failed to progress from the group stages.Ref Facundo Tello ignored appeals for a spot-kick at 0-0 in the second half.Manchester United’s Scott McTominay slipped Stuart Armstrong through, with the Southampton midfielder surging in front of Willi Orban but going down under the defender’s challenge.VAR assessed the incident but declined to recommend an on-field review.MOST READ IN FOOTBALLStuart Armstrong was furious not to get a spot-kickCredit: EPAEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYAnd in the end Kevin Csoboth fired a breakaway winner for Hungary 10 minutes into stoppage time.The match had needed a lengthy hold-up as Hungarian forward Barnabas Varga was knocked unconscious in a sickening collision with Scotland keeper Angus Gunn.Play Foden & Bellingham centrally & go for it! | Jack Wilshere’s plan to win the EurosVarga was taken to hospital and has had surgery for a fractured cheekbone.Afterwards, Clarke had no doubts his team were robbed of a spot-kick – but the extent of his outburst still surprised many.The ex-Chelsea defender and former Reading manager, 60, said: “It’s 100 per cent a penalty and someone has to explain to me why it’s not. “Because otherwise I’m thinking there’s something wrong.“Did I have a conversation with the officials? What’s the point, he’s from Argentina. “What’s the point? Why is it not a European referee? Trying to be clever, I dunno, I don’t understand.  “I don’t understand why he’s here and not in his own country refereeing a game. “I don’t understand how VAR can look at that and say it’s not a penalty.  That’s just my opinion.  It’s 100 per-cent a penalty.”Meet Germany’s Euro 2024 Wags
    Germany’s Wags range from a glam architect to a leading equestrian and a fashion model.
    Dani ter Stegen (Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s wife)
    One of Germany’s most popular Wags with over 600,000 Instagram followers. Earned a degree in architecture after moving to Barcelona with her husband.
    Sara Gundogan (Ilkay Gundogan’s wife)
    Italian model was never shy to pop a dig at Manchester while Ilkay was at Man City, but has changed her tune and said she misses the city since his move to Barcelona.
    Jessica Kroos (Toni Kroos’ wife)
    Couple first met when Toni was 18 and she was 20. Jessica is credited with convincing the soon-to-retire Germany star to sign a new Real Madrid deal at a time when he was wavering.
    Candice Brook (Leroy Sane’s girlfriend)
    American model helped Harry Kane get used to Germany and overcome the language barrier following his move to Bayern Munich.
    Sophia Weber (Kai Havertz’s fiancee)
    Soon-to-be Mrs Havertz has struck up a close friendship with Martin Odegaard’s partner Helene Spilling. Sophia recently enjoyed a hen party in Ibiza.
    Lisa Muller (Thomas Muller’s wife)
    Lisa is a famous dressage rider in Germany and reportedly convinced her husband not to join Man Utd.
    Find out more about the Germany Euro 2024 Wags here

    But Clarke received little sympathy from England fans who had viewed the Hand of God Hokey-Cokey from Scottish counterparts.Sharing a clip of that dancing, one Three Lions’ supporter posted: “How poetic is it that an Argentinian referee denied them a stonewall penalty to send them out after this video. See ya lads airports that way.”Another wrote: “Karma is a b****.”And a third taunted the Scots further by joking: “Gave it their best shot … well one shot anyway.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBut plenty of viewers insisted the spot-kick was far from clear-cut, with many arguing that in fact Armstrong had been the initial offender.Ex-England frontman Alan Shearer backed Clarke’s verdict on the penalty – slamming Orban’s “terrible challenge” – but fellow BBC pundit Chris Sutton was certain the ref’s decision was correct.The stats show what little impact the Scots made going forward More

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    Referee for Scotland’s crunch Euro 2024 clash vs Hungary once sent off TEN PLAYERS in one game in warning to Tartan Army

    NO matter how tense Scotland’s crucial clash with Hungary gets, they must hope the referee doesn’t repeat a jaw-dropping feat he pulled off two years ago.Argentinian Facundo Tello is the only non-Uefa whistler at Euro 2024.Facundo Tello was forced to go red-card crazy in Argentina’s Champions Trophy final two years agoTello dished out three yellows in Turkey’s 3-1 win vs Georgia last weekCredit: RexEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYAnd he’s taken with him to Germany one of the most remarkable red-card counts ever seen in a single game.Tello once sent off TEN players, including seven from one side, Boca Juniors.The Champions Trophy final in his home country back in November 2022 descended into chaos after a goal two minutes from the end of extra time.And rules meant the contest had to be abandoned once Boca picked up the fifth of their seen dismissals.READ MORE TOP STORIESRacing Club snatched a late 2-1 lead through a Carlos Alcaraz header.However, the midfielder sparked a volley of abuse by celebrating in front of the Boca fans – and for a long time.That led to a melee, a spree of sendings-off and Tello blowing the final whistle early – although Racing’s victory stood.Scotland will certainly need calmer heads than Boca’s if they are to reach the knockout phase of a major competition for the first time.MOST READ IN FOOTBALLTello didn’t impress Portugal players like Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Neves, Otavio and Bernardo Silva during their World cup exit to MoroccoCredit: ReutersEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSTo even just give themselves hope, the Scots must beat Hungary and pray that Germany defeat Switzerland.It’s Tello’s second game in charge at the finals.Tartan Army descend on Stuttgart ahead of make or break Euro 2024 clash with HungaryWho is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?

    EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.
    Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.
    But who is the sexiest?
    Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.
    And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.
    In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.
    While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.
    But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story.

    The 42-year-old dished out three yellow cards – and no reds –  in Turkey’s 3-1 victory over Georgia last Tuesday.However, he is already notorious to some of the biggest stars at the Euros.Portugal legends Bruno Frenandes and Pepe accused him of bias after their shock 1-0 World Cup exit to Morocco in Qatar.That was just a month after his 10-red tornado in his home country!But the blast from Fernandes and Co appeared to lack substance.The Manchester United midfielder moaned it was “unacceptable” for an Argentinian to officiate when his nation was still in the tournament.Fernandes also claimed Tello wasn’t up to it as he had never reffed in the Champions League.The Red Devils’ skipper reckoned officials without such experience are “not used to this type of game, they don’t have the pace for this”. READ MORE SUN STORIESNow Scotland must hope that they at least have the pace to threaten the Hungarians…Scotland Euro 2024 guideQUALIFYING for back-to-back Euros is an achievement in itself and the Tartan Army are sure to make the most of it.
    The Scots recorded a famous 2-0 win over Spain in qualifying, but come into the Euros off the back of seven games without a win.
    MANAGER: Steve Clarke
    Only Jock Stein, Andy Roxburgh and Craig Brown have managed Scotland in more games than Jose Mourinho’s former assistant.
    STAR MAN: John McGinn
    The Aston Villa star has reached new levels under Unai Emery’s tutelage and is crucial to a midfield that provides most of Scotland’s goals.
    How Scotland attack
    Scotland’s three-man midfield will be crucial with the likes of McGinn and Scott McTominay providing lung-busting runs and coming up with most of the goals.
    Target man Lyndon Dykes is set to be a big miss with Che Adams likely to step in as the lone striker in a 5-4-1 formation.
    How Scotland defend
    Scotland will put ten men behind the ball in a deep 5-4-1 block out of possession.
    They will work extremely hard to deny the opposition central spaces between the lines, forcing them to resort to wide play and crosses which the Scots feel more comfortable defending.
    Read the full Scotland Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags More

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    What do Scotland need against Hungary to qualify at Euro 2024, what does updated list of third placed teams look like?

    ‘DON’T come home too soon’.It’s every Scotland fan’s biggest fear – immortalised in Del Amitri’s 1998 World Cup song.Players of Scotland greet fans after the UEFA EURO 2024 Group A match with the SwissThose same fears came bubbling back to the surface right now after Scotland’s 5-1 opening day Euro 2024 humbling against Germany – but the draw with Switzerland puts a different complexion on things ahead of Sunday night’s massive clash with Hungary.The Scots – as we all must know by now – have never qualified from the group stage of ANY major tournament.It’s a record Steve Clarke and his squad are desperate to do something about – and they’ve given themselves a genuine chance of making it.With a whopping SIXTEEN teams from the 24 sides which enter the competition able to find their way into the knockout stages, our chances have never been greater.The 5-1 humbling was a body blow but we’re not done yet and here’s how the qualifying equation works now for Scotland.What do Scotland need against Hungary to qualify in third place?
    Last Wednesday’s result means Scotland are sure to kick off against Hungary with their chance of qualification still LIVE
    A win SHOULD be enough against Hungary to finish in third.
    But there are no guarantees.
    A big win against Hungary, and a big Swiss defeat against Germany, could even see us leapfrog the Swiss into SECOND, although our goal difference is currently four goals worse.
    Teams who finish in the top two spots are assured of a spot in the knockout rounds
    The FOUR third placed teams with the best records across the groups will also progress
    The meeting with Switzerland was incredibly close and could have gone either wayWhat are our chances of getting through with four points?
    There’s no guarantees, particularly as our goal difference is poor.
    But since the tournament went to 24 teams, no team has EVER failed to qualify with four points.
    We’re in Group A and play first so other teams would know what they need to beat our tally of points and goal difference.
    We currently sit third in the table of teams slated to finish third in their groups, behind Slovenia and Albania, but three teams have yet to play their second match.
    There’s a very slim possibility of a draw against Hungary being enough – but no team has ever qualified for the last 16 with TWO points
    Here’s the current list of third placed teams ahead of Saturday’s games
    Scotland boss Steve Clarke baffled as journalist introduces HIMSELF as ‘Steve Clarke’ during Euro 2024 press conferenceWho and where would Scotland play if they finish second in the group?
    Scotland can no longer win the group, but finish second in Group A and Scotland would face the Runners-up in Group B
    That could be a meeting with holders Italy or our old foes Spain.
    The other two options in that group are Croatia or Albania
    The match would take place in Cologne in Berlin’s Olympiastadion on Sat 29 June with a 5pm kick-off
    Most read in Euro 2024Billy Gilmour put in a great displayWho and where would Scotland play if they are one of the top four third place finishers in the group?
    Finish in one of the top four third place teams and Scotland would face the Winners of either Group B, E or F
    Group B has Spain, Croatia, Italy and Albania
    Group E has Belgium, Slovakia, Romania and Ukraine
    Group F has Turkiye, Georgia, Portugal and Czechia
    The final classification depends on which groups the best third placed teams come from
    There’s three possible fixture dates and venues
    We could play Spain/Croatia/Italy/Albania in Cologne on Sunday June 30
    OR we could play Belgium/Slovakia/Romania/Ukraine in Munich on Tuesday July 2
    OR we could play Turkiye/Georgia/Portugal/Czechia in Frankfurt on Monday July 1
    What are the tie-breakers if teams are level at the end of the group stages?
    Points
    Goal difference
    Goals scored
    Wins
    If at the end of the group stage, two teams in the SAME group who are facing each other are level on all the above, a penalty shoot-out will be played
    Lower disciplinary points total
    European Qualifiers overall ranking – except if comparison involves Germany, where lots will be drawn
    Go Ballistic – SunSport’s new podcastSUNSPORT is going Ballistic with the launch of our brilliant new podcast.
    Every day of the Euros host Roger Hannah will bring you all the latest news and views from the Scotland camp in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
    He will be joined by our men in Germany – Bill Leckie, Robert Grieve and Derek McGregor.
    And there will also be special guest appearances from our Euro 2024 columnist Gordon Strachan, regular columnist Kris Boyd and bookie basher Jim Delahunt.
    You can watch every episode on our website or our brand new YouTube channel.
    What are you waiting for, it’s time to Go Ballistic!

    Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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    Prince William sounds the rallying cry for England ahead of crunch Slovenia clash as Pickford defends Southgate

    PRINCE WILLIAM told England’s stars: Keep calm and carry on believing in your Euro 2024 dream.The heir to the throne spoke to Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions after the lifeless 1-1 draw with Denmark in Frankfurt.Prince William has spoken to Gareth Southgate’s men again, having met the manager and his players just before they flew to GermanyCredit: ReutersJordan Pickford says ‘everyone’ in the squad is behind SouthgateCredit: GettyPrince William’s words will help rouse England as a nation expectsCredit: RexHe raised spirits as England legends Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker and Rio Ferdinand ripped into Southgate’s side. England bid to bounce back against Slovenia on Tuesday and midfielder Adam Wharton said: “He was just trying to keep us all positive.“He was saying, ‘it’s not the end of the world’.“We were thinking that we’re still top of the group, we didn’t lose, we got a draw. READ MORE TOP STORIESWe’ve just got to reflect on the game, see how we can get better and look forward to the next game.“That’s all you can do in tournament football.”Keeper Jordan Pickford insists England will not panic despite their sluggish start in Germany.Boss Southgate admitted his pre-Euros favourites are “falling short” of expectations after scraping past Serbia 1-0 and drawing with the Danes.MOST READ IN FOOTBALLAdam Wharton has revealed Prince William urged Group C leaders England to keep things in perspective after their Denmark drawCredit: GettyEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSPundits are demanding changes against Slovenia in Cologne on Tuesday.But Everton No 1 Pickford insisted: “Everyone is behind the manager.Meet England’s yoga teacher who’s also award-winning doctor, DJ and wellness entrepreneurJude Bellingham’s Nursery sends their support to England Star“We weren’t perfect against Denmark but that is a good feeling because we know we can improve.“We are fine and chilled. We know we can do a lot better in the games but we haven’t been beaten.“If you can’t win them don’t lose them.“Portugal in 2016 drew every group game and then won the tournament.“The manager always says you are going to have a rollercoaster in tournament football.“We haven’t peaked yet. The narrative is going to change when we start peaking but for now it’s all about Tuesday.”Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to be dropped after his midfield experiment in the first two games.Southgate had said the right-back had played in the centre because he had not found a natural replacement for Euro 2020 star Kalvin Phillips.Trent Alexander-Arnold faces the axe with Jude Bellingham staying inCredit: GettyMeet England’s Euro 2024 Wags

    England 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 who will be supporting England at Euro 2024 here

    But ex-England striker Lineker told his Rest is Football podcast: “It’s insulting to some of the players that are there.“There are players in that squad that could do it — even the young players he’s brought in, Adam Wharton could do it.“Kobbie Mainoo could probably do it. Jude Bellingham could play.“The players just need instructions, players need to understand what their jobs are.”Defender Kieran Trippier says his team-mates will stick together ahead of the final Group C clash.READ MORE SUN STORIESTrippier said: “We could be more happy but the dressing room was calm, relaxed. Gareth and Harry Kane had a few words.“There’s a lot of noise but internally we stick together — as Harry and Gareth said.”Kieran Trippier will once more be left-back, with Eberechi Eze a subCredit: Getty More

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    Gareth Southgate gives worrying England fitness update as he reveals stars aren’t capable of playing like in qualifiers

    ENGLAND’S squad were given a lift by a yoga guru after Gareth Southgate admitted his stars are drained.The under-fire Three Lions boss is considering changing his team and formation for Tuesday’s final Group C game against Slovenia.Gareth Southgate has given a concerning update on England’s fitnessCredit: GettyHarry Kane picked up a back injury while at Bayern MunichCredit: GettySouthgate could rotate his star players for the final group gameCredit: RexAnd Southgate concedes his players, including skipper Harry Kane, were lethargic in Thursday’s drab 1-1 draw with Denmark.The players took part in a yoga session hosted by Dr Rebekah Jade at their Blankenhain base.Southgate said: “We are not pressing well enough, with enough intensity.“We have limitations in how we can do that with the physical condition.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS“We cannot press as high up the pitch as we might have done in the qualifiers, for example. And not keeping the ball well enough. It is as simple as that.  We have to keep the ball better and build with more control.“Then we will be defending less and we’ll have more confidence.”Kane was subbed  on 70 minutes against Denmark and has struggled for sharpness since returning from a back injury at the end of last season.Southgate said: “Harry’s only had one 90 minutes in five or six weeks.”As for making changes against Slovenia, Southgate said: “We’ll have a look at everything.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“We’ll look at the  performance and look at the next opponent and find the best solutions for the next game.“We felt the right thing to do against Denmark was to give confidence to the players we picked in the first game. We had won the previous game.”Play Foden & Bellingham centrally & go for it! | Jack Wilshere’s plan to win the EurosENGLAND vs DENMARK RATINGSENGLAND stumbled to a drab 1-1 draw with Denmark.

    Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions team.
    Jordan Pickford: 6
    Looked a little jittery early doors, though there was nothing he could do about Morten Hjulmand’s corker and he made a decent parry after the break.
    Kyle Walker: 7 
    Made England’s opener by racing round a sleeping Victor Kristiansen – he’ll be having nightmares of that forevermore – and teeing up Kane via a deflected cross.
    John Stones: 6
    OK but you have got to wonder how fit he feels having barely played for Man City in the second half of the season, plus his injury and illness issues over the last month.
    Marc Guehi: 8 and my star man
    Really encouraging again from the Crystal Palace centre-back, looking sharp with his interceptions and assured in distribution.
    Kieran Trippier: 6
    Like Stones, he was fine, but England really need Luke Shaw back ASAP because having no natural left-footer at left-back is a problem.
    Trent Alexander-Arnold: 5
    This experiment of playing Trent in midfield is far from convincing, especially when his passing was off it like it was here, barring one good ball to Saka. Subbed on 54 minutes.
    Declan Rice: 5
    Had to cover so much ground as England dropped worryingly deep in the first half and also lost it a few times in front of his back four.
    Bukayo Saka: 7
    Not quite as electric as his first half against Serbia, but another solid showing from our right winger who has been our most consistent attacker across the two games.
    Jude Bellingham: 6
    Nowhere near the majestic display he put in against Serbia and one of many who looked tired.
    Phil Foden: 7
    Was far more involved than against Serbia – although that was not hard – and had a few dangerous efforts from range, including one that smacked the post after the break.
    Harry Kane: 6
    Netted his 64th goal for his country with an opener he could not really miss, but then gave the ball away from Denmark’s leveller. Surprisingly subbed.
    SUBS:
    Conor Gallagher (on for Trent, 54): 7
    Vital clearance on the stretch when Christian Eriksen was lurking and was not afraid to put his foot in.
    Ollie Watkins (on for Kane, 70): 6
    Played in by Bellingham’s lovely ball after coming on but could not finish from an acute angle.
    Jarrod Bowen (on for Foden, 69): 6
    Copped a nasty tackle which saw Joakim Maehle booked.
    Eberechi Eze (on for Saka, 69): 6
    On for his tournament bow though he was rarely involved.

    England’s players were put through a series of stretches by NHS doctor Jade, who runs wellness retreats.In the gym where they performed exercises like ‘downward dog’, the wall was emblazoned with motivational messages.One read: “Be brave. Be a leader. Be resilient. Commit. Win.”Another said: “Find your greatness.”Denmark got yesterday  off as boss  Kasper Hjulmand aims to create ‘hygge’ — the Danish word meaning to escape the daily rush and enjoy life’s quieter pleasures. Hjulmand said: “It’s the first day off since June 3 and it’s important to get away for a bit.“I don’t know what they will do. People just need to be, to lick their wounds.”Meanwhile, Southgate said he always expected a bumpy road in their bid to win the Euros.He added: “We have to guide the team through the difficult period that is coming but really stay on track and focus on this challenge ahead.“We are trying to do something that has never been done before. So that is going to be a bit of a rollercoaster.“It’s not going to go smoothly when you are trying to achieve extraordinary things. They are bloody difficult.“So we have to accept the level of expectations, we have to accept the arena we are in.“And we have to find a better way of playing.“We are in a different situation to the previous tournaments we have been in but, in other ways, exactly the same — with four points after two games.  But we know the performance level has to be better.“We’ve got some strong leaders in the dressing room here who have been in situations like this and will play their part in lifting people.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We have to play better. I’m not going to hide from the realities of that.“I have to find the solutions to doing that.”Pundits and legends lay into EnglandENGLAND’s lifeless display in the 1-1 draw with Denmark left pundits and legends queuing up to take a dig at Gareth Southgate’s team.
    Here’s the best of what was said…
    ALAN SHEARER
    “Awful performance, particularly after going up in the game.
    “I don’t think one England player can look at themselves and say, ‘I’ve done my job tonight’.
    “England were all over the place, far too sloppy in possession, gave the ball away too much and got caught too many times.
    “There was no energy, no pace, no guile — Southgate is simply not getting the best out of England’s best players.
    “It’s concerning and Gareth will get some serious questions.
    “You saw England players lying on their backs — they look absolutely shattered but there’s no excuse for that.”
    GARY LINEKER
    The BBC host called the performance “lifeless and tepid”.
    On Harry Kane he said: “He needs his manager to ask more of him. I would have expected that if I’d put in that kind of performance.”
    RIO FERDINAND
    “The players don’t look the same as they do for their clubs. It is a big concern.”
    ROY KEANE
    “Courage and bravery, we’re not really seeing it.
    “There’s something amiss with the balance. Bellingham is waving his arms.
    “This is a big test for Gareth. It looks like he’s overthinking things.”
    JAMIE CARRAGHER
    “My big worry watching this and for the rest of the tournament?
    “England look absolutely knackered. They can’t get close to the ball.
    “The surest sign of fatigue is dropping deep.
    “Declan Rice is having to cover so much ground. No-one can convince me this is a strategy.”
    JACK WILSHERE
    “It’s strange that we have taken the lead in both games so far, yet instead of it settling us down and giving us the confidence to play, we have failed to take control.
    “But what was most worrying was that Denmark had a clear way of playing — while we didn’t.”

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    TV pundits and England icons blast ‘awful, lifeless, tepid’ Three Lions after Denmark draw as Southgate says: Blame me

    ENGLAND legends and TV pundits tore into Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions for an “awful, lifeless, tepid” draw against Denmark.Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker and Rio Ferdinand all let rip as Southgate took the blame — admitting his tournament favourites “didn’t function” and “fell short of expectations”.Gareth Southgate admitted his England team have major problemsCredit: GettyDenmark, including scorer Morten Hjulmand, got to grips with Jude Bellingham & Co to earn a well-deserved Euro 2024 group drawCredit: GettyPhil Foden again under-performed, with Declan Rice, left, also quietCredit: RexSouthgate took off four players in the second half, including skipper Harry Kane, star winger Bukayo Saka and midfielder Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: RexAnd Man Utd and Ireland legend Roy Keane fumed that England stars lacked “bravery and courage”.Harry Kane put England ahead but the Danes were far the better side after Morten Hjulmand’s 34th-minute leveller at Euro 2024 in Frankfurt.And former Three Lions striker Shearer, 53, stormed: “Awful performance, particularly after going up in the game.“I don’t think one England player can look at themselves and say, ‘I’ve done my job tonight’.READ MORE TOP STORIES“England were all over the place, far too sloppy in possession, gave the ball away too much and got caught too many times.“There was no energy, no pace, no guile — Southgate is simply not getting the best out of England’s best players.“It’s concerning and Gareth will get some  serious questions.“You saw England players lying on their backs — they look absolutely shattered but there’s no excuse for that.”MOST READ IN FOOTBALLFormer England captain Lineker branded the performance “lifeless and tepid” and joined Shearer in urging Southgate to demand more of his captain Kane.The Danes came out on top in most of the facts ‘n figuresEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSBoth accused the nation’s 64-goal record scorer of not working hard enough off the ball.Lineker, 63, declared: “He needs his manager to ask more of him. I would have expected that if I’d put in that kind of performance.”England stars Jordan Pickford and John Stones admit ‘we could’ve played better’ but happy with crucial point in Euro 2024 clash with DenmarkWhile ex-Manchester United defender Ferdinand, 45, added: “The players don’t look the same as they do for their clubs. It is a big concern.”Former Ireland star Keane, 52, told ITV Sport: “Courage and bravery, we’re not really seeing it. “There’s something amiss with the balance. Bellingham is waving his arms. “This is a big test for Gareth. It looks like he’s overthinking things.”Ex-Liverpool star Jamie Carragher said: “My big worry watching this and for the rest of the tournament?Alan Shearer slating England performance against DenmarkRoy Keane accused England of lacking courageGary Lineker branded the performance “lifeless and tepid””England look absolutely knackered. They can’t get close to the ball.”The surest sign of fatigue is dropping deep. “Declan Rice is having to cover so much ground. No-one can convince me this is a strategy.”Kane looked nothing like the striker who scored 44 goals in 45 appearances for Bayern Munich last season.Real Madrid’s Champions League winner Jude Bellingham was ineffective, while Manchester City star Phil Foden was a shadow of the man voted Footballer of the Year.ENGLAND vs DENMARK RATINGSENGLAND stumbled to a drab 1-1 draw with Denmark.
    Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions team.
    Jordan Pickford: 6
    Looked a little jittery early doors, though there was nothing he could do about Morten Hjulmand’s corker and he made a decent parry after the break.
    Kyle Walker: 7 
    Made England’s opener by racing round a sleeping Victor Kristiansen – he’ll be having nightmares of that forevermore – and teeing up Kane via a deflected cross.
    John Stones: 6
    OK but you have got to wonder how fit he feels having barely played for Man City in the second half of the season, plus his injury and illness issues over the last month.
    Marc Guehi: 8 and my star man
    Really encouraging again from the Crystal Palace centre-back, looking sharp with his interceptions and assured in distribution.
    Kieran Trippier: 6
    Like Stones, he was fine, but England really need Luke Shaw back ASAP because having no natural left-footer at left-back is a problem.
    Trent Alexander-Arnold: 5
    This experiment of playing Trent in midfield is far from convincing, especially when his passing was off it like it was here, barring one good ball to Saka. Subbed on 54 minutes.
    Declan Rice: 5
    Had to cover so much ground as England dropped worryingly deep in the first half and also lost it a few times in front of his back four.
    Bukayo Saka: 7
    Not quite as electric as his first half against Serbia, but another solid showing from our right winger who has been our most consistent attacker across the two games.
    Jude Bellingham: 6
    Nowhere near the majestic display he put in against Serbia and one of many who looked tired.
    Phil Foden: 7
    Was far more involved than against Serbia – although that was not hard – and had a few dangerous efforts from range, including one that smacked the post after the break.
    Harry Kane: 6
    Netted his 64th goal for his country with an opener he could not really miss, but then gave the ball away from Denmark’s leveller. Surprisingly subbed.
    SUBS:
    Conor Gallagher (on for Trent, 54): 7
    Vital clearance on the stretch when Christian Eriksen was lurking and was not afraid to put his foot in.
    Ollie Watkins (on for Kane, 70): 6
    Played in by Bellingham’s lovely ball after coming on but could not finish from an acute angle.
    Jarrod Bowen (on for Foden, 69): 6
    Copped a nasty tackle which saw Joakim Maehle booked.
    Eberechi Eze (on for Saka, 69): 6
    On for his tournament bow though he was rarely involved.

    Kane, Foden and Bukayo Saka were all taken off in the second half.Southgate admitted the display was not good enough but insisted he was to blame, saying: “The team didn’t function and that’s my responsibility.“It’s up to me to find better solutions than we have in these two games.”England remain top of Group C on four points following Sunday’s unconvincing 1-0 win over Serbia.But this draw continued the Three Lions’ dismal record of never winning their opening two games at a Euros.Southgate added: “I don’t think people would look at the players and say, ‘They don’t care’.READ MORE SUN STORIES“If anything we care too much and we’ve got to find a way of getting that right balance.“The challenge is to do something that’s never been done before, so it couldn’t be any bigger.”Three Lions’ skipper Kane was once more below his best More

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    Prince William arrives to cheer on Three Lions in Euros clash against Denmark without Kate & the kids

    PRINCE William has arrived in Germany to cheer on the Three Lions as they take on Denmark in the Euros.William, who is president of the FA, is watching Gareth Southgate’s side in their second group stage match at the Frankfurt Arena – the day before his 42nd birthday.Prince William smiles as he arrives for the clash between England and DenmarkCredit: APHe arrived without Kate and his three childrenCredit: EPAThe Prince was all smiles as the Group C clash got underwayCredit: RexThe Prince of Wales during a visit to St George’s Park last weekCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceThe trip is a solo one for William, as the Princess of Wales is away from public duties while she continues her treatment for cancer.William is one of hundreds of thousands of England fans travelling to Germany throughout the Euro 2024 championship this summer, which kicked off on June 14.He attended England’s games in Euro 2020, which took place in Euro 2021 due to Covid, but gave the Qatar World Cup a miss.Earlier today, cheering Three Lions fans turned Germany’s bars and fan zones into a sea of red and white for the clash with Denmark.Read More in FootballFans packed out pubs with time to spare to settle their nerves as Gareth Southgate’s men hope to secure a last-16 spot.Supporters were seen cooling off in Romerberg Square’s Fountain of Justice while others draped St George’s flags over themselves.But it is now time for the football to do the talking with the Euros clash now underway.It comes after the Prince of Wales, a passionate Aston Villa fan, presented shirts to the England men’s squad before the team left for Germany.Most read in Euro 2024He made a surprise visit to St George’s Park, England’s national football centre in Burton upon Trent.Wills also shared his youngest son Prince Louis’ advice, who suggested the players “eat twice the amount” to secure their bid for Euros glory.He said: “I was on the school run this morning with the children and I asked them what I should say to you today.”The best bit of advice I got to ask you was to eat twice as much as you normally eat.England injury blow as Luke Shaw is ruled OUT of Denmark clash with Man Utd star still training alone at Euro 2024″I don’t have visions of all of you running around with massive red tummies and getting stitches on the pitch.”So I think maybe take my youngest’s kind of advice with a pinch of salt.”England skipper Harry Kane jokingly said: “I don’t think our nutritionist will be happy with that advice.”England got off to a positive start in Germany when Jude Bellingham scored a header 13 minutes into their Group C opener.But it was a lacklustre second half against Serbia with supporters hoping for a more inspired performance against Denmark.All eyes are once again on the 20-year-old Real Madrid star tonight as England eye a spot at the top of our group table.A first place finish will see the team handed an easier route to the quarter-finals with a last-16 tie against a third-place side.But Denmark will be sure to come out fighting as failure to beat the Three Lions tonight could leave them on the back foot in third place.With the likes of Manchester United stars Rasmus Hojlund and Christian Eriksen to contend with, the match could prove tricky.England have not made any changes from their starting 11 that beat Serbia on Sunday.Southgate confirmed Luke Shaw is still injured but the rest of the team are reportedly fighting fit.Marc Guehi’s impressive performance on his major tournament debut silenced his critics.Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Phil Foden and Trent Alexander-Arnold who had a more subdued start to the competition.Only 10,000 seats have been made available for England supporters but a mile-long riverside fanzone has been set up for those who don’t make it inside.Around 30,000 are estimated to have flocked there to watch the action on a 1,500sq ft floating screen.More than 10 million people tuned in to watch England narrowly overcome Serbia in their first match on June 16.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe BBC’s coverage of the clash peaking at 15 million views, the corporation said.The match was also streamed 3.5 million times on BBC iPlayer.Wills even had a kick about during his visit ahead of the EurosCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalacePrince William posed for a squad photo before the Three Lions set off for GermanyCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceThe Prince of Wales chatted to Three Lions boss SouthgateCredit: PAWilliam’s pep talk in full

    Guys, I was just thinking on the way here what I would say today. Some of you have heard me speak before, some of you are new to the setup.
    I thought, what can I offer to all of you and your experienced team here, Gareth – what can I say that could help you in any way?
    I was on the school run this morning with the children and I asked them what I should say to you today.
    The best bit of advice I got to ask you was to eat twice as much as you normally eat.
    I don’t have visions of all of you running around with massive red tummies and getting stitches on the pitch.
    So I think maybe take my youngest’s kind of advice with a pinch of salt.
    Tournament football, it’s a big deal. All of you have had fantastic seasons.
    I’ve seen every single one of you play this season. You’ve all done amazingly well.
    As some of you know way better than anyone else in this room, tournament football is brutal.
    It requires a lot more than you’ve already given. You’ve had a long, long season as it is, and we’re going to ask you to go again
    It’s going to be difficult. It’s going to be fun. It’s going to be challenging.
    It’s going to be everything that you’ve ever dreamed of, you know, wearing that English shirt.
    I think you’re going to have to draw on all the experience you’ve had playing club football.
    I think the biggest thing I’ve learned from coming and seeing you guys over the years in the dressing room I’ve been into is the togetherness.
    What Gareth has instilled in all of you over the years, I really feel you’re a unit.
    You fight for each other. You play for each other. And you really care about putting that shirt on.
    And I just want you guys to know how much it means to everyone back here.
    You go out there. Give your all. Play for the shirt. Play for each other. Play for the country.
    Because everyone’s behind you. We really care about what you’re going to do.
    And I think you need to know also, you know, the England team has a target at the back.
    Everyone wants to beat us. So when you step on that pitch, you’re going to be, you’re going to want to be, you know.
    And you guys have got all the talent in the world. You’re a great squad, but talent alone won’t win us the tournament.
    And so whatever you can do, draw on those experiences in other parts of your life, growing up, other inspirations, other people, family members.
    Whatever it is, you know, get that in you right now. Build up on it. Pump yourself up.
    Because, you know, you never know when you might need it in the future. 
    But listen, I’m rambling. I wish you all the best. I really do. I’ve been watching you some games.
    I won’t get to say what I do at home, watching some matches. But we get very much into it. We really enjoy it.
    And yeah, just best of luck, guys. Bye. Thank you. More