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      Nations League star in horror Cristiano Ronaldo celebration fail after last gasp equaliser against rivals

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      SERBIA star Aleksa Terzic went from ecstasy to injury after a failed celebration left him in a heap on the floor.Terzic, 25, scored a last gasp equaliser for Serbia as the Eagles snatched a late point off rival nation Switzerland in the Nations League on Saturday.Serbia’s Aleksa Terzic west left looking injured on the floor after a failed celebrationCredit: EPATerzic had tried to recreate Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic Siuuu celebrationCredit: GettyThe star’s legs buckled underneath him and he fell to the groundCredit: Youtube/ViaplaySerbia players piled on top of Terzic to celebrate the late equaliserCredit: EPAThe Serbs were trailing 1-0 heading into the dying embers of the game after Zeki Amdouni had put Switzerland ahead in the 78th minute.But a misplaced late corner for the Swiss allowed visitors Serbia to launch a quick counter-attack that was finished off by Terzic.The versatile RB Salzburg wide-man neatly curled his effort past Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel to pull the scores level.Naturally, he wanted to soak in the moment and celebrate in front of the away fans, but his overexcitement left him laying on the floor seemingly in pain.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTerzic had tried to mimic Cristiano Ronaldo’s famous “SIUUU” celebration, but mistimed his leap into the air and crashed down to the floor in an uncomfortable position.The former Fiorentina man immediately took a tumble to the turf and lay by the corner flag as his teammates smothered him in the late celebrations.Fortunately, Terzic was able to get back to his feet after the mishap, seemingly shaking any concern over a serious injury from the celebration.However, the late goal did spell the end of his evening as Serbia boss Dragan Stojkovic immediately replaced him with Sasa Zdjelar.Most read in FootballCristiano Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siuu’ celebration has become famous around the globeCredit: GettyTerzic delightfully curled the ball past Gregor KobelCredit: EPAHis goal secured a valuable point for SerbiaCredit: EPAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe defensive switch helped Serbia see out the remainder of the match and earn their second point of the Nations League campaign.The point meant that the Serbs remain above Switzerland in League A, Group 4 – something that will be huge to the fans given the deep-rooted rivalry between the two nations.Fans call Granit Xhaka a ‘master of dark arts’ as they spot moment Arsenal star wound up WHOLE Serbia bench at World CupSerbia and Switzerland have some bad blood between them regarding the ethnic heritage of some of Swiss players.Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri have previously celebrated using the Albanian Eagle – the nationalist symbol of their ethnic heritage.Shaqiri was born in Kosovo (a former Serbian province which declared independence in 2008).Serbia does not recognise Kosovo’s independence and relations remain tense with many families choosing to move to other European counties including Switzerland.The rivalry often throws up controversy with Xhaka involved in a few feisty moments down the years, including “rattling” the Serbia bench by grabbing his NUTS during the 2022 World Cup.Switzerland vs Serbia is a fixture with a history of needleCredit: Alamy More

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      I felt sorry for England team-mates who toiled while I spent Christmas sipping cocktails on a beach, says Harry Kane

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      HARRY KANE has urged Premier League chiefs to bring back a ­winter break to boost England’s dreams of winning trophies.The Three Lions captain insists players need time off during the ­season to avoid burnout and be at their best for summer World Cup  and Euros tournaments.Harry Kane says he benefited hugely from having last Christmas offCredit: MegaKane’s England colleagues like Cole Palmer face another busy XmasCredit: SplashBayern Munich striker Kane admits he “felt sorry” for Prem stars who had to play over Christmas last year — while he sipped cocktails on a beach.Ahead of Sunday’s Wembley Nations League clash against the Republic of Ireland, Kane declared: “If we can get some sort of winter break for the Premier League boys it would have a big impact.“We had it for about two years in the Prem and it went down well with players.“It’s a shame they don’t get that break now. For a lot of the players it was important, even for a week to get away and recharge so they could finish their season and go into major tournaments. READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS”It’s going to be a hard one to change. But it’s a conversation that needs to be had.”Kane enjoyed  a ten-day family holiday during Bayern’s three-week winter break last season but would have played five games in that period at former club Tottenham.He will get similar time off next month, while Prem stars play four times.Kane’s plea comes after Manchester City’s Ballon d’Or winner Rodri threatened strike action over football’s “crazy” calendar — before an ACL injury ended his season.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPlayers’ unions have also launched legal action against Fifa over next summer’s £600million 32-team Club World Cup in America which will involve City, Chelsea and Bayern.The Prem’s top stars face playing up to 85 GAMES for club and country this season but the PFA want a 60-match limit.England fans tear gassed by ‘heavy-handed’ riot cops as FA launch probeKane, 31, benefited from Germany’s winter break last season, ending up with 44 goals in 45 appearances in his debut campaign for Bayern.He  added: “In Germany, I get that winter break so I get a good block off in a tough period.“I did feel sorry for some of the guys when I was on the beach last year watching them play on Boxing Day and the 29th — and I am there with my cocktail.“It really helped me last year to recover.“Being in Germany gives you that luxury. I’ll have that next year as well.”England’s 68-goal record scorer wins his 103rd cap today after interim boss Lee Carsley dropped him to the bench in favour of Ollie Watkins for Thursday’s 3-0 Nations League win in Greece.Asked if that was a shock, Kane admitted: “A little bit. It was like, ‘OK’, getting my head around it.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But I wasn’t down about it, I wasn’t worried.“Lee wanted to give Ollie the experience in a tough away game we had to win and I understood his decision.”Ollie Watkins shone and scored when coming in for KaneCredit: Getty More

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      Harry Kane warns England stars ‘not every player is going to love the new manager’ when Thomas Tuchel takes over

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      HARRY KANE warned England’s players that Thomas Tuchel will not shy away from  confrontation in his bid to win the World Cup.The Three Lions skipper worked under Tuchel at Bayern Munich last season and says the German  will bring high energy, tactical brilliance and a straight-talking motivational style when he takes over in the new year.Harry Kane is preparing for England’s last game under interim chief Lee Carsley but gave an insight into incoming Thomas TuchelCredit: GettyTuchel officially takes charge of the Three Lions on January 1Credit: GettyTuchel, 51, lasted just over a year at the Allianz Arena,  falling out with some players and the club hierarchy as Bayern failed to win the Bundesliga for the first time in 11 seasons.And while Kane welcomed Tuchel’s  appointment, he admits some team-mates will not like the new England chief’s abrasive style.Kane said: “He’s really disciplined in what he wants and won’t shy away from confrontation if need be.“He is pretty straight in how he talks and maybe there were some players [at Bayern] who didn’t like  or agree with that.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS“But each coach has their own way of trying to talk to players, to criticise players, to motivate players, so not every player is going to love the new manager.  He will be very straight-talking in the media and won’t ever shy away from things.“Probably come March, there will be players who might disagree with some things.“In every team, every player has opinions — but ultimately the way he wants to get us playing will be exciting and I’m looking  forward to reuniting with him.”Most read in FootballKane reckons there are ‘many reasons’ Tuchel didn’t succeed at BayernCredit: APFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKane, 31, says Tuchel loves working with English players and also believes they will appreciate the energy that the new manager brings.The Three Lions talisman said: “He really enjoys working with English players — well, he liked me and Eric Dier!Lee Carsley proud of England’s control in crucial Nations League win over Greece “But talking to the boys who worked with him at Chelsea, they got on well with him. He likes the mentality of English players.“He has a great balance of having a relaxed environment but when  it comes to work, he’s just really  passionate and energetic.“From my  experience last year, he did a lot around togetherness and motivational stuff.“Whether that’s videos or speeches, he’s just a really good motivator.  Tactically, he’s known for being one of the best — but it’s also the energy he brings.“It will be interesting for him because he will experience only having ten-day camps and then not seeing us for a few months.“In those ten days, he will want to bring as much energy as possible. “He gets that balance right of having a relaxed environment when you’re not training, with a bit of banter and a joke, but when you’re on the pitch it is full focus.“For international football, having that energy in short bursts is really important, especially when you get to major tournaments and you’re away for six weeks.”Kane says Tuchel’s personality will bring a significant change  to the calm approach of Gareth Southgate’s eight-year reign. The captain said: “We know  Gareth had a great way of keeping everyone together but he and Thomas are different in the way they approach training and tactics.“Everyone has their own stamp and I’m talking about working with Thomas every day at Bayern — so  it might be different when you’re seeing him every few months.“I’m hoping that, come March, it will be a real injection of energy to lead us up to the World Cup.”Kane admits  the announcement of Tuchel’s appointment last month came as a shock.England can expect a change in style from Gareth Southgate’s reignCredit: GettyForgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel.They exchanged texts back then but will wait until after today’s final Nations League fixture against Ireland to  discuss England together.The Bayern striker explained: “It was a surprise when it got announced. I didn’t know it was going to be him.“After he left Bayern I assumed he’d go back into another club — but it was a good surprise as I’ve worked closely with him and know how good he can be.”Asked why Tuchel had not succeeded at Bayern, Kane replied: “Many reasons. I think he found  it difficult from the moment he got to Bayern. Results weren’t terrible and we were very close to reaching a Champions League final. But there were  some bigger issues that  didn’t quite work out at Bayern.“It was a shame to see him go as he was a big reason I joined  Bayern. I had a great season personally and scored a lot of goals.”Kane was in straight-talking mode himself earlier this week when he slammed some England team-mates who have cried off from international duty.He returns to the starting line-up today after interim boss Lee  Carsley named him on the bench for Thursday’s 3-0 win in Greece.And Kane added: “It was just my opinion England is really important.“After a major championship, these September, October and November camps get forgotten a bit in terms of how important they are.“If we win against Ireland  it sets us up really well for the year ahead.READ MORE SUN STORIES“These camps build that culture and togetherness that leads  you into a World Cup. It was just a reminder  playing for England is really special.“It’s one of the greatest things that I do as a player — and  I always do it whenever I’m available.”England ratings vs Greece as Madueke and Jones steal the show after Kane benchedIT IS difficult to remember an England starting XI which, on paper at least, looked as totally underwhelming as this one.Yet manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel, presumably watching the game at his home in Bavaria, will have been hugely encouraged by this performance from what appeared to be a complete mish-mash of a team – and one which was awfully short of experience.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars…Jordan Pickford – 8Back in after being dropped for Finland last month – and showed a good response. Great stop to deny Kostas Tsimikas at the near post and alive to danger throughout.Earned his first-ever booking in 72 England caps for time wasting in the first half.Kyle Walker – 7Captain in Harry Kane’s absence and passionately conveyed his side’s frustration to ref Daniel Siebert when Pickford was booked.Moved to centre-back after the break when Ezri Konsa went off.Marc Guehi – 7Another solid performance from the Crystal Palace man who you would think would be a first-choice starter for Thomas Tuchel when the German begins work.Ezri Konsa – 7One of several players targeted by a laser in the crowd, along with Pickford and Belligham.Limped off just before half-time and was replaced by Lewis Hall at the break.Rico Lewis – 7Filled in at left-back over newbie Hall, before moving to the right when the Newcastle man came on.Almost had his first England goal early in the second half but was denied by a fine stop from Hall’s club-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones – 9Sparkled on debut in the heart of midfield, not looking overawed in the slightest. Played deeper than he does for Liverpool, but in the same position where he shone for Lee Carsley in England’s triumphant Under-21 Euros last summer.Gorgeous backheel to cap his bow with the third goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Started brightly next to Jones, though gave the ball away a few times after the break. Booked for stopping a quick free-kick early on.Arrived just too late to poke in the rebound from Bellingham’s strike as it had already crossed the line for an own goal.Noni Madueke – 9A blistering first start from the Chelsea man who put real pressure on Bukayo Saka’s place with this performance.He took on his man at every opportunity, at pace, and had excellent end product too, setting up Watkins’ opener and a header for Bellingham which hit the post.Jude Bellingham – 8Some sublime touches and passes from the talisman, including a wonderful ball round the corner to release Madueke in the build-up to the opener.Seemed to thrive with pace all around him and killed off the game with his late strike which hit the post and bounced in off the keeper.Anthony Gordon – 7Provided a threat down the left with his pace and trickery, even if he was outshone by Madueke. A decent display but not one that demanded he start at left wing every game.Ollie Watkins – 7The surprise starter over Harry Kane. He took his early chance well, converting from the edge of the six-yard box.Could have had another when sent clean through but the ball got stuck under his feet.SubsLewis Hall (for Ezri Konsa half-time) – 7Came on at half-time for his debut and did not put a foot wrong.Harry Kane (for Ollie Watkins, 66) – 6Had a curling effort well stopped after exchanging passes with fellow sub Morgan Rogers.Morgan Rogers (for Anthony Gordon, 66) – 8Some exciting touches from the Villa debutant, including one to release Bellingham in the lead-up to the second goal.Jarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7Clever nutmeg to free Morgan Gibbs-White, who then teed up Jones.Morgan Gibbs-White (for Gallagher, 79) – 7Cutback for Jones was on the money. More

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      Lee Carsley was FA’s first choice to be England manager – Thomas Tuchel didn’t win the job, he lost it

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      IF we’ve learnt anything from Lee Carsley’s time as interim boss, it is this — he’s not cut out to be an England manager.A great coach, yes — his record with the Under-21s is proof of that. Not scared of making bold decisions, either, as he showed by leaving Harry Kane on the bench in Greece on Thursday.Lee Carsley was FA’s first choice to become England manager, claims Harry RedknappCredit: PARedknapp claims England hired Thomas Tuchel after Carsley lost to GreeceCredit: PARedknapp suggested Tuchel will have to win the 2026 World Cup with EnglandCredit: GettyI wasn’t the only one surprised to see Ollie Watkins in the side instead. But after a win like that, you can’t argue with him.It was a fantastic result, for sure. But, with all due respect, it doesn’t mean he should have got the job on a full-time basis. There’s no doubt he could have done at one stage.However much the FA insist Thomas Tuchel was always their first choice to replace Gareth Southgate, it’s obvious he wasn’t.It was Lee’s to lose and he did exactly that with the first result against Greece — and his interview afterwards did even more damage.Read More on FootballYes, Thursday’s 3-0 win was superb but it doesn’t alter the fact that if Carsley wasn’t the answer now, he won’t be next time around either. And the next time might not be that long away.Tuchel has an 18-month deal — it’s all about winning the World Cup. Not about building for the future, about unearthing young talent, the next generation.It’s about a trophy and then, after that, quite probably looking for another boss again. So if that’s the case, where does that leave us?As Under-21 chief, Carsley should be a shoo-in. Only he’s plainly not. The pathway system, the coaching conveyor belt supposed to produce managers as well as players, will grind to a halt.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNow it may be Newcastle’s Eddie Howe is the obvious choice anyway.He’s certainly the only one on the horizon right now, if they want an Englishman at least.Yet that doesn’t mean there shouldn’t be alternatives. Others in the set-up passing on their knowledge, their expertise, while all the while putting themselves in the frame.Lee Carsley insists focus is on players available for England after eight drop-outsAnd there are some obvious candidates, too. Men who never let their country down as members of England’s Golden Generation as players but now kicking their heels.I know one of them, Ashley Cole is part of the FA’s coaching team and bringing him in on a full-time basis was a great call.But there should be others alongside, like John Terry, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, if he fancies coming back from Saudi Arabia.A trio with close to 300 caps between them, who would offer so much to the national set-up. Why someone hasn’t given Terry a job is beyond me.My God, what a winner, what a leader! A brilliant organiser, a great talker, but kicking his heels out of the game.And although the other two haven’t had the greatest time as managers, there are reasons for that.Alternative managers for the futureYes, Stevie struggled at Aston Villa after huge success with Rangers but he certainly shouldn’t be written off for one failure. Every manager has at least one on the CV.Don’t forget that Gareth Southgate wasn’t a roaring success at Middlesbrough but look at the job he did with England.It’s the same with Frank. He’s taken over basket-case clubs where he never really had a chance, so the same applies with him as well.All three have such great knowledge, you only have to listen to them talk. So bring them into the system.Have them working alongside Carsley. Maybe even have one on Tuchel’s backroom team although I realise that’s unlikely.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut for Heaven’s sake, make some use of them. If not, we won’t be back at square one when the hunt begins for the next England manager, we’ll be a mile behind it.It may be, as I say, that appointing Howe is a no-brainer by then and, if so, then fine. But the FA have got to make sure he’s not the only cab on the rank. More

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      Mexico manager left with blood pouring down face after being hit with beer can thrown from crowd

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      MEXICO manager Javier Aguirre was left bloodied after a yob hit him with a beer can to the head.Aguirre, 65, saw his team suffer a miserable 2-0 loss at Honduras in the Nations League on Friday at the Francisco Morazan Stadium.Mexico manager Javier Aguirre had a beer can thrown to his headA yob threw the object on Aguirre after Mexico’s loss at HondurasAguirre, though, remained unfazed as he shook hands with Honduras boss Reinaldo RuedaAguirre had blood pouring down his face after the incidentAguirre appeared to refuse treatment after the attackThe Mexican went to shake hands with the opposition’s manager after full-time.That was when the crowd sitting behind the visitors’ dugout started pelting several objects towards him amid sickening scenes.And one of those yobs managed to hit Aguirre on the head as he was about to greet Honduras manager Reinaldo Rueda.The ex-Atletico Madrid manager was unfazed by the incident even after blood started pouring down his face.Read More on FootballMedics rushed to the Mexico boss’ side but he appeared unwilling to receive treatment as he continued walking down the tunnel.The former Espanyol boss continued to show a stiff upper lip when asked about the incident insisting there is “no need to mention it”.Aguirre said: “Nothing, it is just football. The game was hard fought, and they played better.”Regarding the other [the incident], there’s no need to mention it, I’m not one who complains, it is just football, nothing happened.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRueda condemned the incident immediately after the match and described it as “sad”.The Honduras boss went on to apologise to Aguirre as well as Mexico.Inside futuristic three-sided stadium built on a cliff and covered with LED screens that could host 2034 World Cup gamesRueda said: “I’m sad for what happened at the end of the match, because he is a human being.”I want to apologise to the Mexican people and to Aguirre, this cannot happen.” More

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      Man Utd star Marcus Rashford enjoys international break by sitting courtside at NBA game with former team-mate

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      MARCUS RASHFORD has made the most of the international break with a trip to watch the NBA.The Manchester United star has been able to rest up after he was not selected for England.Marcus Rashford went to watch an NBA game in New YorkCredit: GettyJalen Brunson spoke to Rashford courtsideCredit: GettyHe wore a very cosy-looking hoodieCredit: ReutersThe Three Lions won their Nations League clash against Greece 3-0 in Athens.Interim boss Lee Carsley’s side now face the Republic of Ireland on Sunday.Rashford, 27, made the journey to the USA to watch the New York Knicks take on the Brooklyn Nets.He was spotted at Madison Square Garden in a full black outfit with a beanie.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe forward also had some jewellery and a colourful fleece hoodie for when the temperature drops.He was joined by close friend Ro-Shaun Williams, who currently plays for Northern Irish side Larne.The pair know each other from coming through the youth ranks at Manchester United together.They were sat near some other notable names such as Hollywood movie star Ben Stiller.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRashford will be hoping to impress new manager Ruben Amorim when he returns to Manchester.The Portuguese boss is the replacement for the sacked Erik ten Hag.Marcus Rashford’s plans to build a dream home on a golf course appear to be stuck in the rough Amorim has been quick at work setting himself up ahead of his first match against Ipswich Town at Portman Road.He has axed Ruud van Nistelrooy from the coaching side despite the Dutchman being undefeated as a caretaker.Rashford has also been handed an olive branch by incoming England manager Thomas Tuchel.We exclusively revealed that the German has spoken to the forward and insisted that he is wanted in the national set-up.Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel. More

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      Tottenham and Wales star Brennan Johnson is tipped to stuff Turkey

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      BEN DAVIES wants Brennan Johnson to show his red-hot Spurs form for Wales.Johnson, 23, has eight goals in his last 14 games for club and country, including a stunning run of six in a row for Tottenham.Ben Davies will captain Wales in their Nations League clash with Turkey on SaturdayCredit: AlamyDavies attended a McDonald’s Fun Football session at Cheshunt FCThe forward has netted just four times in 31 caps at international level.But defender Davies reckons his Spurs pal is ready to transfer his dazzling club displays to the Dragons. Wales take on Turkey in the Nations League today and Davies, 31,said: “When you come into the team at international level it does take a bit of time to get going.“You make a few substitute appearances at the start but now Brennan’s got a pretty settled position in the team.read more in football“We know how dangerous he can be and if we want to be successful,he’s definitely going to be a big part of that.“He’s blessed with pace and that’s a nightmare for defenders — he’s a proper difficult opponent. “I’d much prefer to have him on my team. “He’s a player that the moment you switch off, he can take advantage because he’s so disciplined in his positioning and timing.”Most read in FootballDavies added: “It was a matter of time before it all clicked. “He creates chances and always looks threatening. He works hard, he’s a great guy and he deserves his success. I’m absolutely delighted for him. “If he keeps putting the ball in the back of the net, then that’s all we can ask for.”With Kieffer Moore out with a calf injury, Johnson will spearhead Craig Bellamy’s attack for the Group B4 tie.Defender Davies is set for his 91st Wales cap when he leads out his country in Turkey today — one behind legendary keeper Neville Southall.But he has never forgotten his Swansea roots.Davies says life has not always been glitz and glamour after he recalled how he used to train on local parks and beaches when he was in the Swans’ academy.The Tottenham defender, with nearly 300 Prem appearances, was one of SEVEN past and present Swansea stars who played in the 1-0 Nations League win over Montenegro last month.He was joined by Ben Cabango, Joe Rodon, Josh Sheehan and Liam Cullen in the starting line-up, while Ollie Cooper and Joe Allen came on as substitutes.That impressive figure is up to NINE in Craig Bellamy’s squad for the crunch trip to Kayseri, with the additions of Connor Roberts, Rhys Norrington-Davies and fit-again Dan James. It would be TEN but for midfielder Cooper’s foot injury. Davies, who has lived in London for a decade, says the strength of feeling for where it all started is highlighted by the fact his son Ralph has a Swansea kit. The Neath-born ace said: “It’s important not to forget your roots and remember where you are from.”Most of us came through that academy and it wasn’t like the one they have today or a lot of the clubs in England.“We were training a couple of times a week in the evening, anywhere we could get a pitch.“We were on Astroturf pitches, in local parks or even down the beach some days. “It wasn’t the luxury that some of the academy facilities are now.“But it was an amazing time. We had some great coaches who gave us every opportunity.“The club has done pretty well and managed to make some sales because of the quality of the boys out of the academy.“And you are also seeing those boys still there are now the heart of the Swansea team.“The guys have done an incredible job. It’s a proud place to come out of.”Davies, who attended a McDonald’s Fun Football session in Cheshunt near Spurs’ training ground, will skipper Wales in the absence of the injured Aaron Ramsey.He will go level with Southall — fourth in Wales’ all-time appearance list — when Iceland visit Cardiff on Tuesday night. Davies is well short of Gareth Bale’s 111-cap record but he reckons another Dragons star will smash all before him.He added: “I’m proud about my number of caps. Playing for Wales is a big honour.“When I started as a 19-year-old, it would have been an absolute dream to get this many.“I’m definitely looking at 100 but I still have the perspective of how good it is to have as many as I have already.“It’s nice to see the core of us that have been the mainstays of the team for the last eight to ten years.“When you get close to these milestones we will look back and say it was a good time for Welsh football.“Injuries permitting, I want to play for Wales as much as I can. That’s my mentality. I love playing for my country.” On beating Bale’s record, he added: “We will see where we get to. But you can’t dwell on things like that.“Even if I do get there then Ethan Ampadu is coming at 24 with 54 caps and he will demolish us all!”Wales are unbeaten in four matches under new boss Bellamy. Victories today and against Iceland will seal promotion to League A.READ MORE SUN STORIESDavies added: “It’s been a successful campaign so far. We’re going into the games looking to try and win the group — that has to be the aim.”l Ben Davies was celebrating the latest McDonald’s Fun Footballsessions this autumn, available to all children aged 5-11. Sign upnow for your nearest free session at mcdonalds.co.uk/football More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo hailed as ‘insane’ by fans after scoring ‘mind-blowing’ goal for Portugal in Poland thrashing

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO scored a magnificent overhead kick for Portugal against Poland in the Nations League.Ronaldo, 39, led his national team to a stunning 5-1 triumph over Michal Probierz’s side at the Dragao Stadium just three months before his 40th birthday.Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo scored a stunning overhead kick against PolandCredit: AFPRonaldo led Portugal to a 5-1 victory over Poland in the Nations LeagueRonaldo scored a wondergoal just three months before his 40th birthdayAnd the star forward scored a brace as he was on target from the penalty spot and rounded up the hosts’ dominant victory with a marvellous bicycle kick soon after.Vitinha stole the ball from Poland’s half and passed to Trincao who then switched the ball back to the Paris Saint-Germain star.The midfielder delivered a pinpoint cross from the right flank and found Ronaldo who smashed it to the back of the net with an expertly-taken overhead three minutes before full-time.Fans were left in awe of the Manchester United legend’s latest wondergoal as they stormed social media to once again praise their “GOAT”.Read More on FootballOne fan tweeted: “Insane!”Another commented: “Bro’s 40 and Still Doing this.”A third wrote: “He turns 40 in February. Is he even human?”This fan said: “Mind blowing.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd that one stated: “GREATEST THERE WAS, GREATEST THERE IS, GREATEST THERE EVER WILL BE.”Ronaldo is showing no signs of retirement before turning 40, which is usually the maximum age when professional footballers hang up their boots.’Cristiano Ronaldo got quicker, stronger and learned after being humiliated by AC Milan and that game changed his career’ says Paul Scholes Instead, the Real Madrid legend currently counts 10 goals and three assists in 15 appearances with Al-Nassr this season.The ex-Juventus star has now scored 135 goals in 215 games for Portugal.Ronaldo is still going strong for Al-Nassr and PortugalPortugal captain Ronaldo received immense praise on social mediaCredit: GettyRonaldo scored a brace for Portugal against PolandCredit: AP More