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      Royal Mail bans its 100,000 posties from flying England flags during Euro 2024 to avoid sparking streets clashes

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      Royal Mail has banned its 100,000 posties from flying England flags during the Euros.Bosses say displaying mini flags on vehicles and letter trollies could spark streets clashes – and claim the red and white emblems could even cause crashes.Royal Mail has banned its 100,000 posties from flying England flags during the Euros – claiming they may spark clashes on the streets, or even crashesCredit: GettyAll flags – of England, Scotland and other countries – are barred from the Royal Mail’s 48,000 vans and lorries, and from tens of thousands of walking postal workers’ trollies.Posties in south London – who used to fly flags at big tournaments – claimed the ban was really a PC ruse and the mail giant had gone woke.But the Royal Mail confirmed yesterday that its flag ban – which has been operated during previous tournaments – would also apply this summer.A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “Flags on vehicles can be a distraction to other road users and poorly positioned items can block vision.READ MORE ON EURO 2024“Poorly fitted items can fall off and be an obstruction or hazard. “Flags also introduce risk of confrontation with other road users or pedestrians.“For this reason we do not permit celebratory flags to be displayed on any of our vehicles.”England start their campaign on Sunday evening as they take on Serbia. Most read in Euro 2024England fans’ must watch guide to Gelsenkirchen ahead of Three Lions’ Euro 2024 clash vs Serbia More

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      England stars greeted by portraits of their DOGS dressed as royalty after arriving at Euro 2024 base

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      THE Three Lions added more paws to their roars – arriving in Germany to be greeted with portraits of their dogs!Gareth Southgate’s men are up for the pup as well as the cup – with many players devoted pet owners.The Crystal Palace midfielder’s Shar Pei is depicted with a curious lookCredit: Instagram @englandThe Rottweiler of the back-up keeper is delighted to have a crownCredit: Instagram @englandThe Brighton centre-back has a pair of CockapoosCredit: Instagram @englandThe Chelsea midfielder has a charming Chow ChowCredit: Instagram @englandDeclan Rice, Conor Gallagher and Anthony Gordon have been televised putting their mutts through a Crufts-style agility challenge for Channel 4.And there was a pictorial treat for the Euro 2024 favourites when they turned up at their hotel rooms.The German hosts presented England stars with portraits of their dogs dressed as royalty.It was a lovely touch – later reflected by the Three Lions’ official Instagram account.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSThe social media team posted photos of nine of the drawings and asked fans to choose their “favourite”.Eberechi Eze’s Shar Pei took pride of place for an enigmatic expression of either disdain or tiredness.Its eyes were half-closed as it wore a huge white dress, big pearls and obligatory crown.Meanwhile Dean Henderson’s pet was shown as a rather regal Rottweiler.Most read in Euro 2024Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon and Conor Gallagher had led their dogs through Crufts-type agility tests as part of Channel 4’s Euros coverageCredit: GettyENGLAND’S BONE FIDE XI OF BULLDOG SPIRIT
      THE Three Lions go into Euro 2024 hoping to collar only their second major trophy.
      And when they won the 1966 World Cup, it needed a border collie named Pickles to find the trophy when it went missing.
      So as England add a dog-style challenge to their build-up for Germany, here’s how they might line up if they want to match Euro icons of the past like Franz Barkenbauer, Johan Crufts and, erm, John Terrier.
      Dean HoundersonKyle WalkiesBark GuehiEbere-Chihuahua EzeJack GrowlishCollie WatkinsJarrod BoneConor Ga-waggerKobbie MainoofoundlandHarry CaninePhil Fido
      Manager: Ga-ruff Southgate

      The Cavapoo of the England No1 appears nervousCredit: Instagram @englandEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSAnd skipper Harry Kane’s chocolate Labrador appeared to be the happiest – with tongue hanging out, possibly hoping for walkies, despite having royal headwear perched precariously on its head.By the middle of next month perhaps it could be the turn of the mutt’s owner to appear to be on cloud Kane-ine…England’s training keeper has a serious-looking German ShepherdCredit: Instagram @englandEngland can win Euro 2024 with these tacticsLewis Dunk is something of a no-nonsense player on the pitch.But his pair of Cockapoos were a dandy duo – more like the stars of aN historical romp than the pets of an old-fashioned defender.Gallagher saw jaw-jaw over his future swapped with a Chow Chow – with his exotic pet appearing well suited to purple robes and a huge amulet.Back-up keeper Dean Henderson’s rather regal Rottweiler shimmered in a bejewelled gold crown.But the Cavapoo of first-choice stopper Jordan Pickford seemed to have a most perplexed look on its furry face.That was puzzling – as it surely knows the Everton hero is one of the first names on Southgate’s teamsheet.Adn what is it about keepers and their dogs?Aaron Ramsdale’s huge fluffy friend also wore an unsettled expression – maybe reflecting the Arsenal’s man’s worries over his club future.Ramsdale, however, has previously revealed what a pressure-release having a dog is.He told Sky News: “It helps so much. We’ve got a little group at football. So me, Rob Holding, and Kieran Tierney have done a few dog walks, which is great.This dog appears as unsettled as his owner might be at ArsenalCredit: Instagram @england”Hardly speak about football when we go on these long walks. But even just myself, if it’s either a street walk, or a park, or a field, you don’t think about much – you’re just out in the open.”The pet of England’s training stopper Tom Heaton also sprung a surprise.The Alsatian wore an ultra serious glare – even though you’d hope a German Shepherd would be the ideal guide for the Thee Lions at this tournament!Finally, Gordon’s long-haired pooch was depicted as perfectly coiffured – with its droopy ears atop military-looking  paulettes on his shoulders.READ MORE SUN STORIESOverall, with such pooch-powered personality in the squad, no wonder the Three Lions are rated by many as, hound-for-hound, one of the best squads in Germany.The England skipper’s Labrador is arguably drawn as the most energeticCredit: Instagram @englandThe Newcastle winger’s dog is pictured lovingly dressedCredit: Instagram @england More

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      Man Utd star Scott McTominay’s stunning Wag sets pulses racing as she lands in Munich to cheer Scotland at Euro 2024

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      SCOTT MCTOMINAY’S girlfriend Cam Reading has arrived in Munich ahead of Scotland’s Euro 2024 opener.Scotland take on Germany tonight at 8pm in the curtain raiser of the tournament.Scott McTominay’s girlfriend Cam Reading has arrived in MunichCredit: InstagramShe posed by some of Munich’s iconic landmarksCredit: InstagramAnd rocked a pair of designer shadesCredit: InstagramCam and Scott enjoyed a holiday earlier this summerCredit: InstagramThe game will be taking place at the Munich Football Arena as the Scots look to get off to a flying start.And McTominay’s girlfriend will be there to cheer on the Scotland star from the stands.She posted an Instagram dump which she captioned “Munich file: Day 1”.The photos saw her pose in a pair of sunglasses in Germany’s second city.READ MORE SCOTLAND NEWSOne fan wrote: “Wish Scotty good luck…Have a great time both…”A second wrote: “Love theseee”A third commented: “Beautiful 💕”Several Galatasaray fans also begged Cam to have a word with Scott about him joining their club.Most read in FootballThe couple have visited some exotic locationsCredit: InstagramCam is also a modelCredit: InstagramEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      The comments were flooded with fans asking the couple to “Come to Galatasaray”.It comes after the couple enjoyed a holiday earlier this simmer ahead of the Euros.Meet the Wags of Euro 2024 cheering on Scotland’s RivalsAnd before that she dazzled at the Man Utd player of the season awards.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTCam visited Dubai earlier this yearCredit: instagram/Cam ReadingShe is signed to Boss Model ManagementCredit: InstagramShe often shares snaps from hers and Scott’s glamorous homeCredit: https://www.instagram.com/camreading_/She has over 30k followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram/camreading_ More

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      How forgotten team-mate of Gary Lineker is plotting to spoil England’s party in Euro 2024 opener vs Serbia

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      GARY LINEKER’S former team-mate Dragan Stojkovic is the Serbian manager seeking to cause a major upset come Sunday.The country’s leading football icon will set out to mute English voices and send shockwaves through the nation by beating Gareth Southgate’s side in the Group C opener.Dragan Stojkovic played alongside Gary Lineker at Japanese side Nagoya Grampus in 1994Credit: GettyAnd now the Serbian manager seeks to spoil England’s opening partyCredit: ReutersLineker will surely watch on as his former team-mate takes on the Three Lions’ on SundayCredit: AlamyFollowing two decades in the European Championship wilderness, it is high time that Serbia made their mark on a major tournament.But Stojkovic’s talented side face the Euro 2020 runners-up England in their group opener in Gelsenkirchen on June 16.And the Serbians – who have ex-Fulham star Aleksandar Mitrovic leading the line – will set out to spoil England’s party, and could be spurred on by Southgate’s recent results.Stojkovic will be encouraged by England’s recent run of one win in five games, including the shock 1-0 friendly defeat to Iceland at Wembley.read more football newsHowever, the Three Lions’ remain favourites to lift the Euros come July 14 and enjoyed an unbeaten qualifying campaign.Stojkovic played with Lineker at Japanese side Nagoya Grampus Eight after joining in the spring of 1994 under Arsene Wenger, who left them for Arsenal in 1996.Stojkovic went on to spend seven seasons with Grampus Eight, retiring as a player in 2001, and played 183 matches for the club, scoring 57 times.For Lineker however it didn’t work out as planned.Most read in footballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe English midfielder played just 24 times over two years, scoring eight goals, and retired after failing to deliver glory during that short spell.Meanwhile Stojkovic also starred for Red Star Belgrade, reaching the semi-finals of the Uefa Cup and winning the Yugoslavia First League on two occasions.Jack Wilshere, Jurgen Klinsmann and Gordon Strachan settle some HUGE Dream Team Euros debatesFrom here, the former attacking midfielder moved to Olympique Marseille and won the Champions League in 1992.But the man who scored 15 goals in 84 internationals has a complex history with the Euros.Stojkovic was in the Yugoslavia team excluded from Euro 92 three days after arriving in Sweden for the tournament, after the outbreak of conflict in the Balkans.But it is the first time Serbia will feature at the Euros after becoming an independent nation in 2006.They will pin their hopes on striker Mitrovic extending a superb run of form in all competitions, with five goals from seven games in Euro 2024 qualifying and averaging a goal per game in the Saudi league this season.England Euro 2024 guideGARETH SOUTHGATE is under no illusions coming into this competition – it is win or bust.
      The Three Lions have never had a better opportunity to end their 58-year wait for a major international trophy given the talent and experience they have in their armoury.
      MANAGER: Gareth Southgate
      The former England star has come closer than anyone since Sir Alf Ramsey to ending the Three Lions’ trophy hoodoo.
      Southgate is aware that the nations expects, and has even suggested he will quit if he doesn’t deliver the European Championship.
      STAR MAN: Jude Bellingham
      The Real Madrid star is arguably the world’s best player at the moment and gives England the platform they need to dominate big games.
      How England attack
      England will look to dominate the ball against almost everybody.
      Declan Rice is crucial in progressing the ball, Bellingham, Saka and Foden will rotate to pull defenders out of position and Kane can both score and drop deep to provide chances for others.
      How England defend
      England press man-to-man with the midfield pushing up to support Kane when the ball is lost and look to win it as close to the opposition goal as possible.
      However, the left-back spot could be a cause for concern, particularly with Luke Shaw entering the tournament with fitness worries.
      Read the full England Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags.

      EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTJack Wilshere’s England XI vs SerbiaSunSport columnist Jack Wilshere wants Engand to start with just one holding midfielder – Declan Rice.
      That means playing Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham in attacking midfield roles, with Cole Palmer and Bukayo Saka on the wings, either side of Harry Kane up top.
      Wilshere said: “In the group stage against teams we should beat, we can  afford to be more expansive, let’s attack.
      “It wasn’t that long ago we were saying we didn’t have the Spanish-type of players who can dominate the ball, now we have.
      “So let’s try to utilise that, dominate the ball and go for goals.”
      And the ex-England midfielder wants Trent Alexander-Arnold to get the nod at right-back, with Kyle Walker centre-back.
      He added: “If you play Trent at right-back and he drifts in midfield, he can switch the play at speed. Walker’s pace will get you out of trouble.”
      Read more from Jack Wilshere during Euro 2024. More

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      England fans’ must read guide to Gelsenkirchen ahead of Euro 2024 clash vs Serbia including best drinking spots

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      TENS of thousands of England fans will descend on Gelsenkirchen this weekend for Sunday’s Euro 2024 opener vs Serbia.So SunSport has produced a must read city guide for every Three Lions supporter – including the best places to have a beer!England fans will flock to Gelsenkirchen in huge numbers this weekendCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunThey’ll be looking for a good time in GermanyAnd SunSport has produced this fans’ guide to Gelsenkirchen which every travelling Three Lions supporter must readGelsenkirchen is a former industrial hub and home to German giants Schalke.And die-hard fan Simon Schlenke provided SunSport with expert local knowledge all England supporters should know.From fan zones and must see tourist attractions, to traditional German eateries and (of course!) the best pubs, we’ve got you covered…Fan zoneSunSport says: The official Gelsenkirchen fan zone will be at the spectacular Nordsternplatz. Read more Euros newsThe enormous riverside park has wide open green spaces, stunning views and striking man-made structures.And of course the amphitheatre which will be a perfect spot to watch all the live Euro 2024 action on vast TV screens.It takes about half an hour on the bus to get there from Gelsenkirchen city centre.But the journey is worth it for the jaw-dropping surroundings where you will be able to watch football while eating and drinking from a wide array of pop-up food and drink stalls.Most read in FootballMake sure you search NordsternPLATZ if getting an Uber rather than NordsternPARK. The platz is part of the park but the overall park is HUGE so beware. We learned this the hard way.Astrid Wett releases England song for Euro 2024 with fellow OnlyFans star as fans say ‘why does it actually sound good?’The Nordsternplatz fan zone will show every Euros game live on huge TV screensThe Euro 2024 trophy overlooks the wide open green spaces of NordsternparkThe fan zone’s stunning riverside location makes the half hour bus journey from Gelsenkirchen town centre worthwhileStadiumSunSport says: Schalke’s 62,000 capacity Veltins Arena will play host to England at a major tournament for the second time in 18 years when they meet Serbia on Sunday.But Three Lions fans won’t want to remember the last time as it saw England lose the 2006 World Cup quarter-final to Portugal on penalties.And, perhaps more memorably, it was the scene of Cristiano Ronaldo’s infamous wink after his then-Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney was sent off for stamping on former Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho.Schalke are floundering in the second tier – finishing mid-table last season – but still boast the second largest number of fan members behind only giants Bayern Munich.The stadium was opened in 2001, cost nearly £170million to build, has a retractable roof and is sponsored by German brewer Veltins.Gareth Southgate’s team will not be the first Englishmen to enter the stadium this year as Colchester-born left-back Derry Murkin played 23 league games for Schalke last season.England play Serbia in Sunday’s Euro 2024 opener at Schalke’s Veltins ArenaThe imposing stadium has a retractable roof and was opened in 2001The modern arena cost nearly £170m to build and sells out most weeks despite Schalke being in the second tierEngland fans will have bad memories of the ground as the scene of Cristiano Ronaldo’s infamous wink after Wayne Rooney was sent off in the 2006 World Cup finalBest place for England fans to gatherSimon says: “Go to the Heinrich-Konig Platz.”England fans met there during the 2006 World Cup too and the atmosphere was great. I have no doubt it will be again.”There are a lot of pubs nearby which is great.”But if it’s too crowded, fans can go to the Trabrennbahn horse racing track where there will be big screens showing the games.”SunSport says: The official Nordsternplatz fan zone is a bit of a faff to get to, so England fans will be seeking out alternative spots to gather.And Heinrich-Konig Platz is just the place.The sprawling square surrounds an old bell tower with bars, pubs and restaurants lining the perimeter.And it is also a designated meeting place for England fans with tickets to the Serbia clash – with the Veltins Arena just a short tram ride away.England Euro 2024 guideGARETH SOUTHGATE is under no illusions coming into this competition – it is win or bust.
      The Three Lions have never had a better opportunity to end their 58-year wait for a major international trophy given the talent and experience they have in their armoury.
      MANAGER: Gareth Southgate
      The former England star has come closer than anyone since Sir Alf Ramsey to ending the Three Lions’ trophy hoodoo.
      Southgate is aware that the nations expects, and has even suggested he will quit if he doesn’t deliver the European Championship.
      STAR MAN: Jude Bellingham
      The Real Madrid star is arguably the world’s best player at the moment and gives England the platform they need to dominate big games.
      How England attack
      England will look to dominate the ball against almost everybody.
      Declan Rice is crucial in progressing the ball, Bellingham, Saka and Foden will rotate to pull defenders out of position and Kane can both score and drop deep to provide chances for others.
      How England defend
      England press man-to-man with the midfield pushing up to support Kane when the ball is lost and look to win it as close to the opposition goal as possible.
      However, the left-back spot could be a cause for concern, particularly with Luke Shaw entering the tournament with fitness worries.
      Read the full England Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags.

      Best pubs for England fans in Gelsenkirchen Simon says: “The Friesenstube pub is near the Heinrich-Konig Platz, it’s great and you get a perfect draught beer.”But, if you want to have a real Schalke experience, go to the Schalke neighbourhood and go to the BOSCH [sports bar].”It’s the official club pub, has a real home town feel and is a bit closer to the stadium.”And it’s also right next to Schalke’s historical first ever stadium – the Gluckauf-Kampfbahn.”Schalke fan Simon told SunSport readers to head to Vereinslokal Schalke 04 “Bosch” bar for a ‘home town feel’The bar in Gelsenkirchen’s Schalke region is close to the Veltins ArenaThe Friesenstube pub by the Heinrich Konig Platz has great beer and traditional German decor where Simon (second from left) is a regularBest restaurants for England fans in GelsenkirchenSimon says: “If England fans have had a little bit too much to drink and want to line their stomachs, definitely go to a restaurant with a Greek name.”They will have everything you need to get sober again and maybe get a good base to drink a few more beers.”Diosmos is particularly great. And if you prefer Italian, go to Ristorante Trulli.”But for traditional German food, head to Haus Hirt steakhouse.”SunSport says: Greek restaurant Topkapi Saray was our favourite spot. Although it is right outside Gelsenkirchen’s main station, the chicken gyros wraps were to die for. Greek restaurants are very common in Gelsenkirchen and most are very good qualitySunSport’s expert local guide Simon recommended Diosmos (pictured) while SunSport loved Topkapi SarayMust try German beerSimon says: “Stauder Pils.”It is the perfect pint.”Stauder Pils is a local beer brewed just ten miles away in EssenMust try German foodSimon says: “Taxiteller. “It’s currywurst, french fries and gyro meat with tzatziki, onions and greens. “Add a bit of mayonnaise and ketchup and you have the perfect combo!”Taxiteller is a German dish made with currywurst, gyro meat, French fries and onionsMust see tourist attractionSunSport says: Schalke’s historic Gluckauf-Kampfbahn stadium is a super spot for any football historians.The old ground opened in 1928 and was used until 1973 when it was replaced by Schalke’s Parkstadion. It is well worth a visit along with the Musiktheater im Revier opera house for the more cultured England fan…Schalke’s historic former Kampfbahn Gluckauf is well worth a visit for any football history buffsWhile the Musiktheater im Revier may be more suited to the more cultured England fanFun fact about GelsenkirchenSimon says: “The city has real industrial history.”There’s been a bit of a downfall in recent years but it is a great place for creative people who want to implement their ideas.”SunSport says: Gelsenkirchen is by no means the most glamorous place you will visit in your life.In fact it is easily the worst city England visit during the group stage.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut the beer is good, the people are friendly and it is easy to get around.If the sun is out and England win, there will be nothing to complain about! More

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      Euro 2024 predictions: SunSport experts pick out their winners, dark horses and if England can go all the way in Germany

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      EURO 2024 kicks off TONIGHT… at last!And our team of SunSport experts have had their say on who they think will leave Germany triumphant this summer.Can England Harry Kane lead the Three Lions to success this summer?Credit: GettyThe host’s chances at the Euros will be bolstered with the return of the experienced Toni Kroos, who returned from international retirement in March.Defending champions Italy are placed in a tricky Group B, alongside three-time winners Spain and 2018 Fifa World Cup runners up Croatia.Cristiano Ronaldo, the highest Euros goalscorer of all time, will head the Portuguese attack for a sixth time.While bookies favourites England look to go one step better this time round and finally grasp a major trophy after an agonising 58 years.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHere, SunSport’s football reporters offer their own predictions ahead of the festival of football that starts tonight at the Allianz Arena in Munich with Germany against Scotland.DAVE KIDDWINNERS: France. They have the deepest squad, the best player in the world in Kylian Mbappe and more experience than any  nation at going deep in tournaments.BEATEN FINALISTS: Portugal. A hugely-talented and well-balanced squad who are capable of going all the way — and should have done so in Qatar.SURPRISE PACKAGE: Serbia. Very capable of beating England in Sunday’s opener and getting to the quarter-finals at least. Most read in FootballOften under-achieve but they are in form and dangerous this time around.PLAYER OF TOURNAMENT: Antoine Griezmann. Was outstanding at the World Cup but might even outshine team-mate Mbappe in Germany.GOLDEN BOOT: Romelu Lukaku. Belgium have an easy group, in which their big centre-forward could build up an  unassailable lead.ONE TO WATCH: Florian Wirtz. Was Bayer Leverkusen’s star boy in their unbeaten Bundesliga season and is ready to translate his red-hot form on to the international stage for the host nation.SunSport’s David Kidd believes France will win Euro 2024Credit: AFPMARTIN LIPTONWINNERS: Portugal. As long as Roberto Martinez has the courage to treat Cristiano Ronaldo as a squad member and not his star player. CR7 is 39, not 29.BEATEN FINALISTS: France. Scheduled to meet England in Dortmund in the second semi. It might take too much out of the winner for them to recover for the final.SURPRISE PACKAGE: Hungary. The glory days of the 1950s are long ago but quietly the Magyars are becoming quite mighty again.Dominik Szoboszlai has shown his quality. Potential last eight side.PLAYER OF TOURNAMENT: Bernardo Silva. Manchester City star has the freedom to play where he wants and if Portugal fly he will have the most powerful wings.GOLDEN BOOT: Harry Kane. England might fall short but they should make the last four — so that is six games for the  skipper to bag a bucketful.ONE TO WATCH: Roland Sallai. Hungary right-winger has impressed  at Freiburg and is coming into his peak at 27.Football reporter Martin Lipton says Roberto Martinez’ treatment of Cristiano Ronaldo is crucial to Portugal’s chances of winning Euro 2024Credit: GettyHow Portugal have performed at the Euros with Cristiano Ronaldo

      CRISTIANO RONALDO has been a model of longevity for more than two decades in an outstanding international career.
      Euro 2004
      After making his international debut in 2003, Ronaldo’s first Euros came in 2004.
      Ronaldo marked his Euro debut with a goal in a 2-1 defeat to Greece – his first for Portugal.
      He scored his second in the semi-final win over the Netherlands, but Portugal met Greece again in the final, losing 1-0 in shock result.
      Euro 2008
      Ronaldo was Portugal captain four years later but Euro 2008 was the least impactful tournament he’s had.
      There was still time for a standout performance, though, as Ronaldo scored once and set up two more in a group-stage win over the Czech Republic.
      Euro 2012
      Playing at Real Madrid at the time, Ronaldo was the top goalscorer at Euro 2012, with three goals, including a brace in the group stage against the Netherlands.
      Portugal’s quarter-final against Czech Republic was heading towards a stalemate with 10 minutes to go and they needed a special moment from him.
      His powerful header in the dying minutes took Portugal to the semi-finals where they lost on penalties to Spain.
      Euro 2016
      Ronaldo scored three goals in Euro 2016, with Portugal crowned CHAMPIONS after defeating France 1-0 in extra time in the final.
      After suffering an injury inside the opening 16 minutes against France, he was forced to watch from the sidelines.
      Yet the Portugal captain became a cheerleader, and helped coach his team-mates to the historic victory.
      He matched Michel Platini’s record of nine goals by the end of Euro 2016.
      Euro 2020
      Ronaldo made history again with FIVE goals at Euro 2020, the most of any player at a Euros.
      Yet it was arguably Portugal’s least exciting affair, as they exited in the Round of 16 following a 1-0 defeat to Belgium.
      With his goals in this tournament, Ronaldo became the top goalscorer at the European Championship with 14 goals.

      CHARLIE WYETTWINNERS: England. It really is now or never for Gareth Southgate and his talented squad.BEATEN FINALISTS: Portugal. Along with France and England, Cristiano Ronaldo and Co are among the tournament’s best three teams.SURPRISE PACKAGE: Georgia. Their first-ever major tournament but the Georgians could be a handful.PLAYER OF TOURNAMENT: Jude Bellingham. Did not take long to become a fan favourite at Real Madrid and provided an assist for the key second goal in their Champions League final win. He is going to be the best player in the world — and Euro 2024 could be his tournament.GOLDEN BOOT: Bellingham. He has proved with Real that he knows where the goal is with 23 to his name in his debut season — and he could end up scoring more than Harry Kane.ONE TO WATCH: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Georgia’s Napoli winger (left) is a terrific player and rediscovered his best form just before the end of the Serie A season.Jude Bellingham has been backed to win TWO major individual trophies during the EurosCredit: PADAN KINGWINNERS: Portugal. They had the quality and depth to have won the World Cup. And if Cristiano Ronaldo can drag one final show from himself, they have a massive chance of winning this.BEATEN FINALISTS: France. They are too good, surely, not to reach the final but once again perhaps not quite good enough to win. Only a side with similar quality but better cohesion can stop them.SURPRISE PACKAGE: Hungary. With Dominik Szoboszlai as their talismanic captain they’ve beaten some big teams. Now it’s time to do it at a tournament.PLAYER OF TOURNAMENT: Bruno Fernandes. Manchester United’s captain can take out the frustrations of his club season on Europe with Portugal.GOLDEN BOOT: Kylian Mbappe. If France play seven games, it will almost certainly be Mbappe’s goals that get them through.ONE TO WATCH: Johan Bakayoko. The Belgian star of PSV Eindhoven’s  title win is already on the shopping list of bigger European clubs.A manageable group gives him the chance to show why.Three SunSport reporters chose Dominik Szoboszlai’s led Hungary as the ‘surprise package’Credit: EPAEURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTTOM BARCLAYWINNERS: France. They have the best player in Kylian Mbappe and a manager in Didier Deschamps who knows how to get it done on the big stage.BEATEN FINALISTS: Portugal. They have the most complete squad   but question marks surround boss Roberto Martinez after he struggled to get the best out of Belgium’s golden generation.SURPRISE PACKAGE: Hungary. Dominik Szoboszlai and Co showed  how dangerous they are by thrashing England 4-0 on their own patch two years ago.PLAYER OF TOURNAMENT: Kylian Mbappe. The world’s best player has just moved to the world’s biggest club Real Madrid, and will want to show he is le coq of the walk.GOLDEN BOOT: Cristiano Ronaldo. The goal machine remains as prolific as ever.ONE TO WATCH: Xavi Simons. Talented Dutch winger had such a good campaign on loan from PSG last season at RB Leipzig that Bayern Munich want to borrow him now.Great things have been predicted for ‘world’s best’ Kylian MbappeCredit: AFPJACK ROSSERWINNERS: France. As much as we would all love to see England triumph, it is hard to look past the French. They have some making up to do after being knocked out by Switzerland in 2021.BEATEN FINALISTS: Portugal. Roberto Martinez has an attacking arsenal any manager would envy. Behind the forward line there are some wily old operators.SURPRISE PACKAGE: Austria. Boss Ralf Rangnick may well have been a flop at Manchester United, but he has really got Austria going. They have six wins and a draw from their last seven games — including victory over hosts Germany.PLAYER OF TOURNAMENT: Kylian Mbappe. Now leading France not only as their best player but also the captain, Mbappe will want to make another big impact.READ MORE SUN STORIESGOLDEN BOOT: Harry Kane. Fresh from an incredible goalscoring season with Bayern Munich, Kane remains England’s greatest hope of progress.ONE TO WATCH: Warren Zaire-Emery. France’s 18-year-old sensation won the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year at PSG. England’s Harry Kane is pipped to in Golden Boot by two SunSport reportersCredit: AP More

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      Germany’s England love-in ahead of Euro 2024 is very concerning – they are definitely up to something

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      THERE is something concerning about the new-found affection for England among the Germans.After years of rubbing our noses in it on the football field and generally looking down theirs at us, suddenly we are their brothers from another mother.Scotland fans will face Germany in Munich tomorrowJurgen Klinsmann told this newspaper just days ago that should we go all the way at Euro 2024, the whole of Germany would raise a two-pint stein of beer in celebration.And those things are bloody heavy.Back in the 1990s, Klinsmann embodied much of what us Anglo- Saxons resented about our neighbours from across the North Sea.On the pitch he was crafty, slick and not averse to falling over rather easily.read more football newsHe was also annoyingly successful and even danced on Wembley’s hallowed turf after winning Euro 96, while rejoicing in our demise —  along with 82 million of his countrymen. Now it has gone full circle with Herr Klinsmann and his mates thinking that England are wonderful.Germany’s midfield legend Toni Kroos actually wants Jude Bellingham to have a “decisive tournament”.Not just that. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOver here they are now modelling their country on ours.This week is a prime example of how Germany is doing its level best to be more English, while also  shattering a few illusions about their ingrained superiority.Watch adidas’ Jude Bellingham advert that leaves England fans with ‘goosebumps’ and features cameo from Laura Woods For a start, German trains are dreadful. The locals say “scheisse”. You don’t need to look it up.Forget this long-held notion that they are punctual to the second.If an inter-city “ICE” train turns up at all, let alone within 20 minutes of its scheduled arrival, you may hear spontaneous applause from despairing passengers on the platform.This Wednesday, my 3.30pm connection from Nuremberg to Munich was cancelled without explanation.The approachable young girl in her smart maroon Deutsche Bahn uniform informed the crowd that the next train would depart at 4pm. The immediate response from one weary, cynical  traveller, ground down by years of this anguish, replied: “Today? Or Tomorrow?”My first German joke. Ultimately, it didn’t matter.German fans welcome England stars to GermanyCredit: RexAt 3.55pm DB decided to send it to Bremen anyway. Which if you don’t know (and I didn’t) is 369 miles in the opposite direction to Munich.One battle-scarred individual told me this is normal, as 500 people scrambled to switch platforms in a bid to make a later service.Just last weekend, Germany striker Niclas Fullkrug told assembled media how he made the mistake of taking the train back to camp after a weekend visit to family.After three were cancelled, the Borussia Dortmund centre-forward squeezed on to the fourth and found himself unwittingly becoming a temporary member of a school trip in a jam-packed carriage trundling through Bavaria at half speed.The fact Fullkrug could chuckle about it is heartwarming, yet a characteristic more associated with us.They are not famous for laughing at themselves in these parts, yet it is becoming part of the national make-up.Kroos, a five-times winner of the Champions League with Real Madrid, poked fun at the German national team’s recent disasters — joking that his kids have become used to watching successful teams, so obviously they haven’t seen much of “Die Mannschaft”.And the media themselves? This week some of my Teutonic colleagues expressed disappointment that Jack Grealish will not be at Euro 2024,  saying that they see him as “kind of German”.When I asked if that’s because he has a terrible hairstyle, they actually saw the funny side and agreed even Stevie Wonder could get a job as a barber out here.Then take the weather. It’s been largely dull, wet and chilly this week in Munich and I could see my breath on Wednesday morning.The heating is on at my hotel. Much more Barnsley than the Bavarian summer ideal we have been sold.READ MORE SUN STORIESSomething is happening to Germany.Instead of looking down at us, they like us and want to be more like us — haphazard, flawed and not quite as good as people think. More

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      Gareth Southgate spotted wearing England’s Euro 2024 secret weapon loved by Kim Kardashian and Prince Harry

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      WHAT do you do if you are Gareth Southgate and firmly believe in marginal gains to get England ahead for Euro 2024?You wear a secret weapon smart ring loved by Kim Kardashian and Prince Harry.Gareth Southgate has left no stone unturned in terms of Euro 2024 prepCredit: PAAfter the England boss was spotted wearing an ‘Oura ring’ on his left index fingerCredit: � 2024 PA Media, All Rights ReservedThe ring is used by celebrities such as Kim KardashianCredit: GettyThe ring is the most cutting edge technology for wellness trackingThree Lions’ players and staff have turned to a celebrity-endorsed wellness tracking ring in their bid to become Euro 2024 champions.The smart gadget reportedly monitors sleep, body temperature, stress and heart health.England stars, including Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi, have been spotted wearing the high tech jewellery during training this week.Meanwhile defender John Stones has already worn the ring, according to The Telegraph.read more football newsHe told Face Magazine in 2023: “The first thing I do once I’m out of bed is check my Oura Ring to see how I’ve slept – it’s addictive.”Southgate has been open to introducing various developing technologies during his eight year spell as England manager.Earlier this year the FA took up a partnership with Google Cloud to add interactive ‘Player Profiling System’ technology to England’s preparations, which profiles how players react to being substituted or benched.Meanwhile Oura Rings are priced up to £500, with the cheapest set at £277.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile some players have worn them during training, it appears unlikely that they would be asked to wear them during matches.The ring is popular with some of the most high profile celebrities on the planet.Euro 2024 – Prince William gives England team a royal send-off before Southgate’s 26 hopefuls jet off to GermanyIn addition to Kardashian and Prince Harry, Gwenyth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston have all been pictured wearing the sophisticated tracker.Explaining how the ring can boost performance, the Oura website writes: “Whether you’re managing a professional sports organisation or training elite forces, ensure your team is always performing at the highest level with precise biometrics.”Use accurate, continuous data to prioritise rest, adjust training schedules, monitor recovery, and detect signs of illness, injury, and fatigue.”Marc Guehi was also pictured with the ring on his left index fingerCredit: GettyJack Wilshere’s England XI vs SerbiaSunSport columnist Jack Wilshere wants Engand to start with just one holding midfielder – Declan Rice.

      That means playing Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham in attacking midfield roles, with Cole Palmer and Bukayo Saka on the wings, either side of Harry Kane up top.
      Wilshere said: “In the group stage against teams we should beat, we can  afford to be more expansive, let’s attack.
      “It wasn’t that long ago we were saying we didn’t have the Spanish-type of players who can dominate the ball, now we have.
      “So let’s try to utilise that, dominate the ball and go for goals.”
      And the ex-England midfielder wants Trent Alexander-Arnold to get the nod at right-back, with Kyle Walker centre-back.
      He added: “If you play Trent at right-back and he drifts in midfield, he can switch the play at speed. Walker’s pace will get you out of trouble.”
      Read more from Jack Wilshere during Euro 2024. More