UEFA Nations League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Uefa Nations League clash ABANDONED after fight breaks out and one of teams walks off pitch in protest

      by

      A NATIONS LEAGUE match was ABANDONED as one team stormed off in protest after fighting on the pitch and chants from fans.Kosovo players reportedly took offence at controversial taunts from the Romanian home crowd in stoppage time.Kosovo players showed their anger and decided to walk offCredit: EPARomania players were left bemused and alone on the pitchCredit: EPARiot police moved in front of the stands in a chaotic finish to the nightCredit: EPAConfusion reigned as Kosovo players and staff went offCredit: ReutersFlares were seen amongst Romanian fansThe Romanian team waited for nearly 40 minutes to see if their opponents would return at the National Arena.Kosovo were then given an ultimatum to return within five minutes.And when that didn’t happen, it’s understood the home team were told to get back out in full kit – so the final whistle could be blown in a farcical finish.Meanwhile, the Kosovo players remained in their dressing room.READ MORE TOP STORIESIt’s uncertain what football chiefs will do now.But although the score was locked at 0-0 four minutes into injury time when play stopped, there’s a chance the home side could be awarded the match 3-0.Friction on the pitch whipped up the late tension in a traditionally-heated clash.Players scuffled on the edge of the box and Romania’s Denis Alibec and Kosovo defender Amir Rrahmani had to be pulled apart.Most read in FootballTottenham defender Radu Dragusin, a main man for the hosts, tried to intervene in the flare-up.Home players returned to warm up before the match was abandonedCredit: EPARomania’s Spurs star Radu Dragusin intervened as things heated upCredit: EPAAnd more drama then erupted soon after, with the away team and staff striding off after chants from the stands.Officials failed to dissuade the Kosovans from going all the way back into the dressing room.Top 10 highest paid footballersCue chaos – and eventually the match being called off.The last clash between the sides – two months ago – also led to play being halted.But on that occasion action resumed as Romania notched a 3-0 away win in the same competition. More

    • 263 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Jude Bellingham shows he can be Tuchel’s main man for England but Cole Palmer and Phil Foden will struggle for minutes

      by

      JUDE BELLINGHAM’S comments were as pointed as the rampaging run through the Greek defence which led to England’s second goal.“A lot was made of the lads that weren’t here but the lads that were here, who showed up, were amazing,” said the Real Madrid Galactico.Jude Bellingham put on a masterclass as England beat Greece 3-0Cole Palmer withdrew from the squad after picking up a knock his last two Prem gamesBellingham showed up, big time, in Athens on Thursday, with a leader’s performance which propelled England to the top of their Nations League and confirmed him as his nation’s first-choice No 10.Since the Euros we have spent a lot of time wondering whether Lee Carsley – and, soon, Thomas Tuchel – could fit England’s three great attacking midfield talents into the same team.The conundrum surrounding Bellingham, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer – who all prefer to play in that No 10 role – has become like the old Gerrard-Lampard riddle writ large.Interim boss Carsley started with all three in central positions – and no recognised centre-forward – in the chaotic 2-1 home defeat by Greece last month.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut when Foden and Palmer were part of a mass withdrawal from this England squad, Bellingham bossed Thursday night’s 3-0 victory over the same opposition.The feeling – shared by skipper Harry Kane – is that certain players who pulled out of Carsley’s squad would have been present had Tuchel taken up his post before these final two Nations League matches against Greece and at home to Ireland on Sunday.Chelsea talisman Palmer and Manchester City’s Footballer of the Year Foden both played the full 90 minutes for their clubs last weekend and, if you were a betting man, you might fancy them to do the same next weekend too.In their absence, England thrived in a hostile environment producing the sort of truly convincing performance which has been rare in 2024.  Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBellingham has often been shoved into unfavoured positions on the left and in a deeper midfield role for Real but he is surely the man Tuchel will build his England team around.Palmer and Foden, as outstanding as they are at club level, will struggle to nail down places in the starting line-up when everyone is fit.England fans tear gassed by ‘heavy-handed’ riot cops as FA launch probePhil Foden started the season injured and again withdrew from England dutyFoden has rarely impressed in 43 international appearances and during this summer’s Euros, he and Bellingham did not co-exist effectively.Could Palmer or Foden be accommodated on the right by Tuchel? It is difficult to imagine them starting ahead of Bukayo Saka or Noni Madueke, whose pace and intelligence were key to England’s win over Greece.“There would have been a million and one excuses if we hadn’t played well or not got over the line,” said Bellingham, “but the lads did their business so professionally.”Curtis Jones enjoyed an excellent debut in central midfield and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers shone as a second-half sub on his first senior appearance for the Three Lions.The absentees have inadvertently given Tuchel plenty of food for thought because those who stepped into the breach proved their own credentials against a Greek side who wiped the Wembley floor with England last month.Lee Carsley will go back to the under-21s after this international breakThomas Tuchel will begin work as England manager in JanuaryWhile Carsley’s brief reign has often felt confusing, he will leave a decent legacy of having promoted several members of his European champion Under-21 side into the senior ranks.Jones, Madueke, Angel Gomes and Morgan Gibbs-White all triumphed at that tournament in Georgia last year and all have enjoyed their elevation to the first team.Asked about their impact, Carsley said: “They’ve put themselves in a really good position.“We spoke about the amount of players who weren’t here but it’s given six or seven players some opportunity to be in a venue like that, to experience that kind of atmosphere. They’ve done themselves a lot of good.“To get an opportunity to play and be as exciting and attacking as they were is good to watch. We want to see a side that’s playing with energy, enthusiasm, creating chances and we had that.“They won at under-18 level as well and I think it definitely helps. We’ve seen that with Germany in the past and with Spain so why can’t that be England?”Carsley sees Bellingham, 21, as a leader for the clutch of emerging England players – even though some of them are older than the Real man.He added: “Jude always plays with responsibility. You only see it during games but he does it in training, he leads by example.“He’s a really good person to have around because people want to aspire to him.”As for Carsley’s biggest gamble of Thursday night – benching Kane in favour of Ollie Watkins – that was a ballsy move which paid off when the Villa man netted the early opener.Yet he will revert to starting Kane against the Irish and tried to claim that England’s record goalscorer had been rotated rather than dropped – a euphemism which the skipper is unlikely to appreciate.Carsley said: “Harry’s playing on Sunday, he’ll start. He’s captain, he’s so important to the team. 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.“It was just a case of having a look at something different, giving someone else the experience who has not had a lot of chances.“I definitely didn’t drop Harry Kane. He’s done well for me every game he’s played and been involved with. It wasn’t a case of being dropped, far from it.“Ollie is playing in the Champions League with Villa, he’s doing really well, the same with Morgan Rogers. It’s great he got a goal, it looks like a great decision then doesn’t it?”READ MORE SUN STORIESIt certainly did look like a great decision from Carsley.Just as it looked like a terrible decision for several others not to turn up.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

    • 225 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Newly emerged footage shows Curtis Jones has scored same goal for England before after incredible flick against Greece

      by

      LIVERPOOL ace Curtis Jones made his long-awaited senior debut with England on Thursday against Greece.Jones, 23, enjoyed a bow to remember as he also hit the back of the net during the Three Lions’ 3-0 win over the Greeks in Athens.Liverpool ace Curtis Jones scored on his England senior debut against GreeceCredit: GettyJones scored a fantastic flick to seal England’s 3-0 win over GreeceCredit: X @itvfootballJones did the exact same thing last year for England’s Under-21s against FranceCredit: X @englandAnd the midfielder did it in style as he sealed the three points and first place in their Nations League group with a stunning flick on 83 minutes.Morgan Gibbs-White played a clever pass from the right flank and found the popular Liverpudlian, who beat Greek goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos with a slick back-heel.That was Jones’ first ever England goal at senior level, however resurfaced footage shows he has done the exact same thing before with the Under-21s.In fact, he did it only last year in an international friendly against France at the King Power Stadium.Read More on FootballAnd just like against Greece, the Liverpool ace had scored the Young Lions’ third goal to seal the win.Noni Madueke played a brilliant low ball from the left and found the incoming Jones who finished brilliantly with a scintillating flick.Lee Carsley’s Young Lions went on to win 4-0, as Emile Smith Rowe, Madueke and Jacob Ramsey also got on the scoresheet.Jones’ goal against Greece allowed England to exact revenge following last month’s embarrassing 2-1 defeat at Wembley against Ivan Jovanovic’s side.Most read in FootballThe Three Lions are also top of their group and in charge of their destiny as a victory over the Republic of Ireland on Sunday in London will see them returning to League A.Jones was among the standouts in Athens on a night that saw Carsley without nine key players who dropped out.England fans tear gassed by ‘heavy-handed’ riot cops as FA launch probeThe former England youth international made a strong case for a place in the starting line-up under incoming permanent manager Thomas Tuchel, who takes over after the match with Ireland.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

    • 175 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Italy vs France: Get £60 in football free bets and bonuses with William Hill

      by

      THE Nations League has thrown up a beauty of a fixture on Monday night when Italy host France.And brand new William Hill customers who register an account and stake a tenner will be rewarded with a colossal £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..William Hill £60 bonusVisit the William Hill website on your mobile device HERE*Register a new account and deposit a minimum of £10 using the Promo Code: T60Place a bet of at least £10 from your main balance on football on the William Hill Sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greaterAfter settlement – win or lose – William Hill will credit your account with £60 in free bets and bonusesWilliam Hill: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*Not got a William Hill account? No problem!It’s really easy to register an account and you can get your hands on that generous £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on the footy!Simply register a new account and deposit a minimum of £10 using the Promo Code: T60After that, stake at least £10 from your main balance on football on the William Hill Sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greater.After settlement — win or lose — William Hill will credit your account with £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football and in the casino!Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply. More

    • 238 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      England fans call for Thomas Tuchel to be SACKED before he starts job as FA accused of ‘bottling it’

      by

      ENGLAND fans called for Thomas Tuchel to be SACKED before he even starts his new job.And some even accused The FA of “bottling it” over the appointment.Lee Carsley inspired a 3-0 win in Greece in his penultimate match in interim chargeCredit: GettyFans reckon they do not need Thomas Tuchel to come in after allCredit: GettyTuchel, 51, accepted a £5million-a-year, 18-month contract to succeed Gareth Southgate as England manager with the objective of leading his new team to 2026 World Cup glory. But despite signing on the dotted line in October, the German will not take over until January.And that has seen a final farcical November international break with Lee Carsley in charge – and nine players dropping out for the two must-win clashes with Greece and Ireland.Carsley is set to return to his role as Under-21s boss when Tuchel comes in.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSBut after inspiring his inexperienced side to a stylish, emphatic 3-0 win in Athens, plenty of supporters piled in on The FA’s decision to let Tuchel wait until the New Year to begin his reign. And instead, they want Carsley to stay in charge of the senior team permanently after all. One said: “Send Tuchel home and give Carsley the job!”Another wrote: “Is it too late to sack off Tuchel if Carsley has them scoring goals like that?”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA third added: “Lee Carsley is a genius isn’t he? Who needs Thomas Tuchel?”A fourth joked: “Who needs Tuchel?”Thomas Tuchel gives his first message to fans as England manager 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.A fifth quipped: “Enjoying watching England tonight. Tuchel out.”A sixth tweeted: “England with good patterns of play and attractive football. Yes defensively not well but if the football is this good who cares? Tuchel will be such a bad appointment.”A seventh blasted: “FA totally bottled it with Carsley. Taking England in the right direction.”And a final user simply typed: “Tuchel out!!”England’s starting XI featured senior heads in Jordan Pickford, Jude Bellingham and stand-in skipper Kyle Walker – with Harry Kane surprisingly benched.The remaining eight had just 78 caps between them.They got off on the wrong notes, with an awkward rendition of the national anthem leaving ITV viewers hilariously covering their ears.But the Three Lions were on song on the pitch as Noni Madueke teed up Ollie Watkins to break the deadlock inside seven minutes.England weathered the Greece storm and got the all-important second goal when Bellingham’s shot came back off the post and bounced in off the hosts’ goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones rounded off his superb debut with a delicious, cheeky flick as England leapfrogged Greece at the top of their Nations League group ahead of the final fixture against the Irish at Wembley on Sunday.After his penultimate game in interim charge, Carsley said: “The most pleasing thing was the amount of control we had. We had a lot of possession and created a lot of chances.“It was brilliant for Ollie to get a goal. It’s important that if we want to put these players in a position to win the World Cup, they need to have as many experiences as they can, so it’s no slight on Harry. He’ll start the next game.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Harry understands that it’s important that other players experience that kind of experience we had tonight. He’s a great example to the rest of the players. I expect him to start on Sunday and play well.”Curtis was outstanding, played with quality and a matureness that we saw in the summer (at the Under-21 Euros). He showed he can adapt and he’s intelligent enough to know where the space is.”Curtis Jones’ sumptuous flick rounded off the 3-0 winCredit: GettyANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England job More

    • 188 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Portugal star takes swipe at Cristiano Ronaldo after captain revealed he was ‘disappointed’ in team-mates

      by

      NUNO MENDES hit back at Cristiano Ronaldo’s moan about Portugal stars crying off international duty.Roberto Martinez’s side lead group A1 by three points going into Nations League finales against Poland and Croatia.Portugal defender Nuno Mendes hit back at Cristiano Ronaldo’s commentsCredit: EPARonaldo said he was disappointed in his team-mates dropping outCredit: AFPLike England, Portugal have had a number of drop-outs and Ronaldo, 39,  raged: “There’s nothing better than representing your country, your culture, your children.“That’s why I’m disappointed by some players.”Bayern Munich’s Joao Palhinha is the latest to withdraw, heading back to his club for treatment on a muscle injury.But Paris Saint-Germain defender Mendes, 22, is expected to play alongside Ronaldo against Poland.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe said: “I’m very proud to represent Portugal.“I think it shows, I give my all on the pitch and in training. Ronaldo has his opinion. I have mine.”England captain Harry Kane shared Ronaldo’s view, arguing Three Lions duty should come before anything.He said: “I think England comes before anything. It comes before club and it is the most important thing you play as a professional footballer.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“Gareth was hot on that and he wasn’t afraid to make decisions if that started to drift from certain players.“It’s a shame this week obviously. I think it’s a tough period of the season and maybe that’s been taken advantage of a little bit.England ratings vs Greece (1)“I don’t really like it if I’m totally honest. I think England comes before anything, any club situation.“The joy to play for England. I think Gareth brought that back. Every camp, people were excited to come, every camp people wanted to play for England.” More

    • 238 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      England ratings: Noni Madueke and Curtis Jones steal show after Harry Kane benched to give Thomas Tuchel a headache

      by

      NONI MADUEKE repaid Lee Carsley by inspiring England to a vital win over Greece – after the England boss left Harry Kane on the bench.The Three Lions required a victory by at least two goals to put Nations League promotion in their hands.Noni Madueke inspired England to victoryCredit: GettyCurtis Jones marked his debut with a brilliant goalCredit: GettyJordan Pickford kept England ahead with some key savesCredit: APOllie Watkins put England ahead in the seventh minuteCredit: AFPThey got off to a dream start when Ollie Watkins, deputising for captain Kane, opened the scoring in the seventh minute, after Madueke and Jude Bellingham linked brilliantly.England players were targeted by lasers throughout but they did not let it affect them as they finished the first half on top.Greece had a period of dominance after the break and Jordan Pickford kept England ahead, before Bellingham took control.The Real Madrid star is yet to hit his heights of last season but he proved class is permanent as he bore down on goal before striking the post, only for the ball to rebound off goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachomidos and into net.READ MORE IN ENGLANDCurtis Jones then added the third which was the best of the match, rounding off a brilliant move with a delightful flicked finish into the bottom corner.Here is how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the England display…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.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKyle 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.ITV ‘do England stars dirty’ as live footage of national anthem singing leaves fans in hystericsMarc 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.READ MORE SUN STORIESJarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7 Clever 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

    • 263 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Greece 0-3 England LIVE RESULT: Jones’ sublime flick makes it three as visitors close in on top spot – latest updates

      by

      ENGLAND are now top of their Nations League group after thrashing Greece 3-0 in Athens.Noni Madueke assisted Ollie Watkins for the opener before the Greece keeper’s unfortunate own goal made it two.And then Curtis Jones’ sublime flick competed the romp, sending Lee Carsley’s men to the top of the group.RESULT: Greece 0-3 EnglandTV channel: ITV1FREE live stream: ITVXGreece starting team: Vlachodimos, Rota, Koulierakis, Mavropanos, Tsimikas, Siopis, Zafeiris, Bakasetas, Masouras, Tzolis, PavlidisEngland starting team: Pickford; Walker, Konsa, Guehi, Lewis; Jones, Gallagher; Gordon, Bellingham, Madueke; WatkinsFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow all the action from Athens Olympic Stadium with our live blog below…Fans using laserA section of the home crowd kept using lasers during England’s 3-0 win over Greece at OAKA.Photos show the likes of Jude Bellingham, Jordan Pickford and Noni Madueke being targeted.This comes after last month’s Conference League clash between Panathinaikos and Chelsea in the same ground.The Blues’ stars were also being pointed at by the lasers from the crowd.Copy linkCopiedJude Bellingham speaksEngland superstar Jude Bellingham hailed his team-mates after all the drama that saw nine team-mates dropping out.Good win, important win. A lot made of the lads not here but the lads who are here showed up.Really proud of the boys tonight.The lads did their business crucially.Jude BellinghamITVCredit: PACopy linkCopiedLee Carsley reactsEngland interim boss Lee Carsley praised his players but is now only looking forward to his last match in charge on Sunday against the Republic of Ireland at Wembley before Thomas Tuchel takes over.We are moving in the right direction. Big game on Sunday at Wembley. Important we now recover and get ready for that.It was important that the players played to their strength. It was about players getting an opportunity and we saw that tonight.Curtis [Jones] is an outstanding player and I am delighted for him. These players play week in and week out in the Premier League.[Morgan] Rogers has been really good for [Aston] Villa and maybe could have been in the senior squad sooner.Lee CarsleyITVCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedDave Kidd from AthensNo permanent manager, no captain in the starting line-up and precious few senior players bothering to turn up.And yet it was no sweat for England to regain control of their Nations League group and gain revenge for last month’s Wembley embarrassment.It was a night when interim boss Lee Carsley placed his trust in several of his own Under-21 European champions – and gave Thomas Tuchel plenty of food for thought.Why Tuchel wasn’t in the dugout, heaven alone knows, and why he wasn’t in the Greek capital to watch is also a mystery.But while the German enjoys his sabbatical, Carsley enjoyed the best night of his brief reign – just when the cards all seemed stacked against him.He made a major call in starting skipper Harry Kane on the bench, then watched his replacement Ollie Watkins bag an early opener before an own goal from keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos and a sweet strike from debutant Curtis Jones earned a convincing victory.And all this after a dozen members of his squad were ruled out through injuries, genuine or otherwise.That third goal created by Morgan Gibbs-White and finished by Liverpool midfielder Jones had Carsley’s signature stamped all over it.And another member of Carsley’s triumphant Under-21s from last year – Noni Madueke – was the best player on the pitch, creating Watkins’s opener with pace and intelligence.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEngland player ratingsHere’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rates each England star after their 3-0 win over Greece.Jordan Pickford: 8Kyle Walker: 7Marc Guehi: 7Ezri Konsa: 7Rico Lewis: 7Curtis Jones: 9Conor Gallagher: 7Noni Madueke: 9 Jude Bellingham: 8Anthony Gordon: 7Ollie Watkins: 7SUBSLewis Hall: 7Harry Kane: 6Morgan Rogers: 8Jarrod Bowen: 7Morgan Gibbs-White: 7Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedCharlie Wyett from AthensIt 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.Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker and Jude Bellingham were the only established players who started last night with their combined number of caps totalling 200.Incredibly, the other eight players had managed just 78 senior appearances between them.Undoubtedly, the moment of the night came from the heel of Curtis Jones who capped a fine debut performance with a brilliantly cheeky effort for 3-0.Yet the performance of the evening in the Greek capital came from Noni Madueke who celebrated his fourth cap – and first start – with a menacing display down the right and it was a surprise he was substituted in the 66th minute by interim boss Lee Carsley.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedTom Barclay from AthensFull-time and a great win that means England will win the group provided they beat Republic of Ireland on Sunday.Lee Carsley really showed what he is capable of here and provided they do win at the weekend, his interim reign will look, in time, a relative success under trying circumstances.Barring that one maverick formation against Greece at Wembley last month which obviously backfired!England looked full of threat with the pace in the attacking areas which freed up Jude Bellingham, while Curtis Jones excelled on debut.Jones, Madueke and Gibbs-White were all huge parts of Carsley’s Under-21 Euros triumph last summer and they made big contributions here too.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedUpdated Nations League tableEngland are now in full control of their destiny in their Nations League group.The Three Lions are top of Group 2 and just need to beat the Republic of Ireland on Sunday to return to League A.The Greeks have sealed second place and could have an ace in the hole if they can’t qualify for the 2026 World Cup via the qualifying phase.That is of course if England qualify automatically from their own qualifying phase.More below:Copy linkCopiedGreece vs England statsEngland dominated 56n per cent of possession against Greece in a sold out OAKA.The Three Lions registered nine shots, five of which were on target.The Greeks, on the other hand, produced 10 shots, half of which were on target.More below:Copy linkCopiedFT: Greece 0-3 EnglandEngland are top of their Nations League group after a dominant victory despite a raft of absences.The Three Lions visited Greece at OAKA without nine key players and captain Harry Kane on the bench.But Kane’s replacement Ollie Watkins got the visitors on the front foot after just seven minutes when Jude Bellingham released Noni Madueke with a brilliant ball and the Chelsea ace found the Aston Villa star in the penalty area.The Greeks huffed and puffed but England got their precious second on 77 minutes when Bellingham’s shot rattled the post and the incoming Conor Gallagher got the rebound that led to goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos’ own-goal.And Lee Carsley’s side sealed the three points as well as the top thanks to the debuting Curtis Jones who hit Vlachodimos’ bottom right corner after a brilliant assist by Morgan Gibbs-White seven minutes before full-time.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFT: Greece 0-3 EnglandPeep!England have topped their Nations League group!!!Copy linkCopied90+2 Greece 0-3 EnglandChanceGreece vice captain Mantalos delivers a sharp shot that Pickford palms away.Copy linkCopied90 Greece 0-3 EnglandFour minutes of stoppage time to go.We’re seeing flares getting lit from the home end and the lasers haven’t stopped all night.Copy linkCopied88 Greece 0-3 EnglandI’m starting to see empty seats at a sold-out OAKA.The home crowd can’t be heard at all, but the away end is in full swing.Copy linkCopied86 Greece 0-3 EnglandChanceKane tries an awkward shot from a tight corner down the right before losing his ballance.The ball goes way over the crossbar!Copy linkCopied83 Greece 0-3 EnglandDebut goal for Jones who has been amazing tonight!Bowen finds Gibbs-White in the box, who cuts it back for the Liverpool ace who fires it past Vlachodimos’ bottom right corner.Credit: PACopy linkCopied83 Greece 0-3 EnglandGoal!Jones scores on his debut!!!Copy linkCopied80 Greece 0-2 EnglandSubstitutionGreece boss Jovanovic brings on Mantalos who replaces Siopis.Copy linkCopied78 Greece 0-2 EnglandSubstitutionEngland boss Carsley brings on Gibbs-White, who replaces Gallagher immediately after he greatly contributed to the second goal.Copy linkCopied77 Greece 0-2 EnglandThey did it! Revenge for the loss at Wembley!Rogers released Bellingham with a fantastic pass and the Real Madrid star delivered a stunning shot from the edge of the area that hit the post.The incoming Gallagher got the rebound and Vlachodimos sent the balls to his own net inadvertently.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied78 Greece 0-2 EnglandGoal!!!Gallagher! Or is it an own-goal???Copy linkCopied76 Greece 0-1 EnglandGreece are pushing very hard for an equaliser with their attackign substitutes.Giannoulis delivers a ball from the left and Tzolis gets a touch but it’s too heavy and goes out of play.Copy linkCopied73 Greece 0-1 EnglandChance!England captain Kane tried his first shot of the match but it goes straight to Vlachodimons.Beautiful pass by Rogers on his debut.Copy linkCopied73 Greece 0-1 EnglandVery thunderous ovations from the Greek crowd when Konstantelias and Ioannidis came on.The two have been revelations at their clubs PAOK and Panathinaikos respectively.Ntelias was linked with Salzburg and Benfica in the summer, while Ipswich, Leicester, Bologna and Lazio wanted Ioannidis.Copy linkCopied72 Greece 0-1 EnglandGreece are still top of the group as England need another goal.Reminding you the Three Lions need to win by a two-goal margin!Copy linkCopied More