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      Why is Thomas Tuchel not managing England yet?

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      ENGLAND take on Greece and the Republic of Ireland in a blockbuster Nations League double-header this month.The Three Lions begin with a trip to Athens on Thursday night, seeking revenge against Ivan Jovanovic’s side.Thomas Tuchel was appointed as England manager on Tuesday, October 8Credit: GettyEngland were on the end of a shock 2-1 defeat to Greece when the two teams met at Wembley back in October.A 94th-minute winner from Vagelis Pavlidis secured all three points for the Greeks and continued his side’s perfect record in the competition. The Three Lions will finish their November international break by hosting rivals Republic of Ireland in their Nations League group finale on Sunday evening.But why is new England boss Thomas Tuchel not in the dugout for the huge double-header?READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhy is Thomas Tuchel not managing England yet?Thomas Tuchel will not be in the dugout for England’s Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland as he doesn’t start his new post until next year.The German officially begins his tenure as Three Lions gaffer on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.Tuchel penned an 18-month contract, which expires after the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.FA CEO Mark Bullingham was asked about the delayed start to the Tuchel-era during the German’s unveiling, he said: “When we first spoke to him, we had our timescale, Thomas had his timescale and it just fitted really well. What was so impressive was his singular focus on us and the World Cup and that project.Most read in Football”It made sense for it to start on January 1 and made sense for Lee to finish the campaign in the Nations League. So we’re very comfortable where we are and that’s what we’ll be doing.”Since the former Chelsea boss doesn’t start until the new year, interim manager Lee Carsley will take charge of the Nations League matches against Greece and Republic of Ireland.The 50-year-old will return to his former post as under-21s head coach after November’s double-header.Tuchel’s first game in charge of England will come during the March international break, but it is not yet known who the opposition will be. More

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      Paris braced for night of anti-Semitic carnage at France v Israel as 2,500 elite cops to patrol ‘double ring of steel’

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      FRANCE and Israel are set to clash in a crunch Nations League tie in just hours amid growing fears of a night of anti-Semitic carnage.Over 6,500 special forces and armed cops have been readied for the game with a number of extensive security measures already in place as Paris gears up for the international fixture.The Israel national side training in Paris amid growing fears of a night of anti-Semitic carnageCredit: AFPThousands of anti-Israel protesters took to the streets of Paris on Wednesday nightCredit: ReutersParis’ police chief has already labelled it as a “high-risk event” with officials announcing there will be at least one cop per three football fans in the capital tonight.Chief Laurent Nuñez said today that 4,000 officers will be on patrol around the game with 2,500 inside the Stade de France and the rest around the capital.This protective double ring of steel will also be flagged by Israeli security forces, including agents from the Mossad intelligence agency.Another few hundred cops will be deployed across transport networks leading to Paris’ northern suburbs.read more in France vs IsraelFears of violence have drastically ramped up in recent days after thousands marched through the streets of Paris in protest.Footage shows Palestine flags being waved as anti-Israeli marchers voiced their anger towards a controversial far-right gala taking place in the capital.It even promoted anti-demonstrations which led to chaos for the cops. Just a week ago, disturbing footage also showed Israeli football fans being chased through the streets of Amsterdam by an anti-Semitic mob.Most read in FootballMaccabi Tel Aviv supporters were ambushed by masked rioters in the Dutch city as they left the Johan Cruyff stadium last Thursday.This has prompted international concerns over the safety of Jewish fans particularly those watching Israeli-based teams.Israeli football fans attacked by mob of rioters who chased them through streets of Amsterdam in disturbing clashOrganisers have told The Sun that they are even struggling to sell tickets due to issues around Israel with the Middle Eastern conflict – with less than 15,000 seats reserved so far.The Israeli government even told travelling supporters to “categorically avoid attending” the France match.Just 100 tickets have been sold for the away side with many fearing a night of chaos could ensue.And events in the Netherlands have only ramped up the need for special measures further in wake of rising anti-Semitic hate in Europe.One of these precautions saw the Israel team being confined to their undisclosed hotel in the Val d’Oise region to the north of the capital.Constant armed guards were at the base and accompanied the players and staff to their training site on Tuesday.Authorities demanded the location be kept under wraps and all media activities were cancelled.Manager Ran Ben Shimon has revealed to the press that he and the team feel safe despite the major precautions in place.Officials have announced there will be at least one cop per three football fans in the capitalCredit: GettyRioters run through the streets amid disturbing clashes in Amsterdam between Israelis and an anti-Semitic mobCredit: RexA match between Mali and Israel at the Parc des Princes in July 24 saw brawls up in the standsCredit: The Mega AgencyThe team and staff are expected to be under constant police supervision as they make their way to the stadium later on today.Bars and restaurants in the area have also been told to close from the early afternoon to avoid any disruption. Many called on the French government to move the match away from Paris – even before the issues in Amsterdam kicked off.Experts said the panic and potential issues of rival fans and the public clashing wasn’t worth the international game.Swaths of opposition sides have decided to move their games against Israel to neutral venues since the Middle Eastern conflict reached boiling point. After playing France away in Paris, the team will travel to play against Belgium on Sunday.This match has already faced intense scrutiny with it being moved to a neutral venue in Hungary due to safety fears.France’s elite RAID tactical unit are believed to be the first line of defence at the game and have been deployed across the nation following the violence in the Netherlands. Police chief Nuñez said security at the game was of extreme concern for the authorities.He said: “There’s a context, tensions that make that match a high-risk event for us.”There will be an anti-terrorist security perimeter around the stadium.”RAID – which stands for Search, Assistance, Intervenion, Deterrence – will be in the stadium, he confirmed.The RAID was one of the first special forces units rushed to the scene when ISIS suicide bombers attacked Paris in November 2015.There will be an anti-terrorist security perimeter around the stadiumLaurent NuñezParis police chiefTerrorist thugs killed 130 people on a single night with chilling eruptions even being heard from the Stade de France on the harrowing night.French President Emmanuel Macron and his prime minister, Michel Barnier, will also attend the match.Macron and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu have been at logger heads in recent months over the Middle East.Macron accused the PM of “spreading barbarism” across Gaza and Lebanon with his continued assaults on Hamas and Hezbollah.France has already answered calls for tightened security around Israeli athletes after the 2024 Paris Olympics earlier this year.They deployed a widely successful “ring of steel” around the Games to ensure safety after several declarations of violence from terror group ISIS and anti-Israel parties.It became the most guarded Games ever with over 60,000 cops and soldiers, drones, helicopters and a huge increase in AI surveillance all deployed.The rise of antisemitism in EuropeSince the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, antisemitic violence has surged globally.It has been fuelled by heightened geopolitical tensions and polarising public discourse around the war.This escalation is marked by an alarming rise in physical attacks, threats, and hate speech targeting Jewish communities.In Europe, reports of antisemitism have spiked, with attacks on synagogues, Jewish schools, and individuals intensifying.Countries like Germany and France have seen notable incidents of physical violence and vandalism.In Germany, synagogues were firebombed, and Jewish youth sports teams have reported attacks, reflecting a growing climate of fear.Public spaces associated with Jewish identity, including schools and cemeteries, have also required heightened police protection.Across this week a number of pro-Palestinian marches and counter demonstrations have taken place in Paris. Over 10,000 took to the streets on Wednesday to protest against a controversial pro-Israel gala.The “Israel is Forever” gala was originally set to be attended by Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich but he has since pulled out and agreed to speak over video call.Several controversial far-Right figures also showed – making life difficult for patrolling cops.An open letter by seven civil rights groups to the French media said allowing the gala to go ahead was an “insult to international law”.Earlier this month, a Jewish football team was placed under police protection after it was “attacked” by a knife-wielding pro-Palestinian mob in Berlin.Teens from Makkabi Berlin’s youth team claim they were “hunted down” by a group of Arab youngsters after a game against local rivals.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne player’s dad claimed that his son was “deeply shaken” when he came back home from the game.The boy was allegedly spat at and later harassed by a mob of kids and adults who followed the squad off the pitch with sticks and knives.People flocked to Paris to protest against the ‘Israel is Forever’ galaCredit: APIsrael fans have been targeted at sporting events such as in the Paris OlympicsCredit: GettyRAID officers will join 6,000 cops to help protect Paris after the police chief labelled the game as a ‘high-risk event’ More

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      UEFA opens investigation into Premier League ref David Coote over video of him snorting white powder during Euro 2024

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      UEFA have opened an investigation into suspended Premier League referee David Coote after he was filmed snorting white powder in a shocking video taken while he was on duty at Euro 2024.In the eight second Whatsapp film the under-fire VAR specialist is wide-eyed as he uses a rolled up US bank note to snort a four inch line of what appears to be cocaine.David Coote was filmed snorting the white powderThe video was filmed during Euro 2024Coote is expected to quit as a referee before he’s sackedCredit: GettyCoote, 42, was suspended by the PGMOL, governing body for professional referees, this week after a separate video emerged of him, again wide-eyed,  calling former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a “German c**t”.The Sun’s exclusive new video was taken on July 6 – a day after the Euro 2024 quarter final clash between France and Portugal, where he acted  as a support VAR official.UEFA confirmed in a statement today they have now opened an investigation into the ref for a potential violation of its regulations.It read: “A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to evaluate a potential violation of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations by the referee, Mr. David Coote.”Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course.”UEFA have already taken action against the Prem ref by removing him from their list of officials for the upcoming international fixtures.In the viral video, the bedside table alongside the white powder are seen scattered with packets of prescription drugs, a credit card, and the Terry Hayes novel The Year of The Locust.He sent the clip to a pal and it’s believed he filmed himself in his Uefa-funded hotel room he used during the tournament.Most read in FootballNo referees have EVER been tested for drugs as David Coote faces end of Premier League careerEXCLUSIVE by Martin LiptonNO referees or match officials have ever been tested for drugs – as David Coote’s apparent “cocaine shame” is set to end his career.While all players and other athletes in British sport are subject to drug testing rules, including post-match and out of competition action, the regulations do not apply to match officials.That is the case globally across not just football and throughout the world rather than only in the UK.All sports follow the World Anti-Doping Authority code, aimed at preventing athletes gaining an advantage by using performance-enhancing substances.The Wada banned list also includes recreational drugs.But the Wada provisions, also followed by UK Anti Doping, which conducts tests across British sport, makes no reference to match officials.UKAD explains: “Any UK athlete subject to the anti-doping rules of their sport and non-UK athlete staying, training, residing, entering a competition,”Or named as a member of a team participating in a competition at any level within the UK is eligible for testing as part of UKAD’s national anti-doping programme.“Any athlete eligible for testing can be tested anytime, anywhere.”But the regulations do not apply to match officials – because of the “performance enhancing” provision of the world code.The PGMOL have revealed they are aware of the video of him sniffing a white powder.They told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.”The ref sent another photo from Frankfurt on July 1 which showed his credit cards on a saucer either side of six chopped-up lines of suspicious white powder. He was staying in hotel rooms appointed by tournament organiser UEFA.The pal, who wishes to remain anonymous, also reveals that the referee made other remarks about Everton football club and Liverpool player Andy Robertson.Coote’s previous comments about Klopp are now at the centre of both a PGMOL and FA investigation into his conduct.As the scandal grew this week, Uefa also took him off their roster for games during this weekend’s international break.Other videos were sent over the summer from France, where Coote officiated at three football matches at the Paris Olympics. They included the Israel versus Japan clash on July 30, where he was in charge of VAR.Coote also branded Goodison Park – the ground of Liverpool’s rivals Everton – as the worst place to referee due to the fans “shouting abuse so close to the pitch”.He hates officiating at Bournemouth games because it’s “too far away” and moaned he was “too big” to have to ref at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena for their Championship clash against Oxford United on August 16.The pal is speaking out to highlight Coote apparently bragging of taking drugs repeatedly during tournaments and big Prem matches.Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”A PGMOL spokesperson told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.”Coote was suspended by PGMOL bosses earlier this week after a leaked video showed the ref abusing Liverpool and their ex manager Jurgen Klopp.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe footage was said to have been taken during the Covid-19 pandemic.An investigation is now taking place and the FA are also initiating their own probe, as Coote could be charged with an aggravated breach of FA rules after mentioning Klopp’s nationality in the initial leaked video. More

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      Greece hero reveals why England clash is far more important for his country – but insists they won’t play for a draw

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      GREECE legend Giorgos Karagounis insists tonight’s clash is far more important for his country than it is for England.The Greeks haven’t been at a major tournament since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil where Euro 2004 winner Karagounis was pulling the strings in midfield.Euro 2004 winner Giorgios Karagounis believes Greece can do the double over EnglandCredit: GettyKaragounis inspired Greece to an historic triumph 20 years agoCredit: AFPGreece will host England at the Athens Olympic Stadium where there is sure to be a raucous atmosphereCredit: ReutersBut they would be thrown a lifeline in their bid to reach the 2026 showpiece if they top their Nations B group all while missing out on the top two berths in qualifying.Ex-Fulham star Karagounis told SunSport: “The game will be more important for Greece because topping the group would boost our chances for the World Cup.”Statistics tell us that it’s harder for Greece to qualify for a World Cup while England shouldn’t have too many difficulties getting there.”Beating England is always prestigious especially in front of your own public. Winning would also be massive in terms of confidence heading into the ‘real’ games, the World Cup qualifiers.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Success in the Nations League is nice but after 12 years have to qualify again for a major tournament.”But now there’s more pressure on Greece after their great performance at Wembley. People’s expectations have risen and they now expect a similar result. The enthusiasm is back and there will be 70,000 fans in the stadium.”A draw will do but we have to try and win because settling for a stalemate is dangerous as it heightens the risk of losing.”You should always go into every game to win, never mind if you play a top team like England.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMore of the same as in their shock 2-1 two fortnights ago and the Greece should be home and dry.Asked if Greece can do the double over England like his legendary crop gloriously did over hosts Portugal 20 years ago, Karagounis said: “Yes, why not? My prediction is a Greece win or a draw.Lee Carsley insists focus is on players available for England after eight drop-outs”But we need to have the same game plan as in England and show the same level of concentration, grinta and mentality. The players need to believe in themselves, show respect but not be scared.”It won’t be easy for Greece because maybe England underestimated us and won’t make the same mistake twice. But likewise it will be difficult for them to win in Greece, many of their players are missing…” The team is confident now and there are a couple of young players who have elevated the quality of the team. Winning at Wembley does a lot for the morale and confidence.”Yet times have changed. While Otto Rehhagel parked the bus before trying to nick one on the break or on set-pieces, now Greece go for the jugular.Ex-midfielder Karagounis said: “Greece are now playing really well and have a propensity for attacking football. They go for it, create goal chances and don’t just try to defend like in 2004.”Against England we scored five goals but only two counted.That proves that we didn’t just defend, it was a “super-attacking” display.”Karagounis banks on talisman Christos Tzolis and Pavlidis, who scored twice in the reverse fixture, to do the job again.He said: “Tzolis is one of a new wave of players who have given the squad that X-factor. He also has a good shot from distance and can replicate my goal against Portugal at Euro 2004. Bagasetas too has shown that he can score from outside the box.”Pavlidis has proven that he’s a great footballer and plays at Benfica. But we shouldn’t compare him to Charisteas. They are different players with different characteristics. Pavlidis is an orthodox centre-forward while Angelos played as a winger at times and also defended.”Karagounis’ life has never been the same since he netted the opening goal of Euro 2004.He said: “That goal changed my life as it came in the first game against Portugal at their home. Everybody was saying that it was impossible for us to win as they were packed with superstars and had the fans behind them.”The pressure was on Portugal because they were expected to beat Greece. My goal after seven minutes was a shot in the arm. There and then our dream started to gather pace.”Those three points were invaluable as they set us on our way to the quarterfinals where we knocked out France, the reigning European champions and team to beat at that time with players like Zidane and Henry.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Once we got over the France hurdle, we were confident that we could go all the way and win the trophy. At home and abroad I’ve never had to buy a drink again when I met Greeks.”We gave the whole country belief, showing that if you’re united you can win even if you’re not the best. Greece can now surely draw inspiration from us for.” More

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      Greece hero Nikos Dabizas reveals banter he had with David Beckham after Man Utd legend’s iconic England free-kick

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      GREECE hero Nikos Dabizas revealed a funny conversation he had with England legend David Beckham after his iconic free-kick in 2001.Beckham led the Three Lions to the 2002 World Cup with a stunning last-gasp strike which sealed a 2-2 draw against the Greeks in the 93rd minute.Nikos Dabizas had a funny chat with David Beckham after his iconic free-kick for EnglandCredit: Allsport – GettyDabizas issued a tongue-in-cheek statement to BeckhamCredit: GettyDabizas tackles Emile Heskey in the 2001 qualifierBeckham led England to the 2002 World Cup with his legendary strikeCredit: Bongarts – GettyGreece were 2-1 up at Old Trafford thanks to goals by Angelos Charisteas and Demis Nikolaidis, either side of a Teddy Sheringham equaliser, which were set to condemn Sven-Goran Eriksson’s side to a tricky play-off with Ukraine.But up stepped Becks for a final set-piece, 25 yards out of Antonis Nikopolidis’ goal.He curled an impossible effort that caught the goalkeeper by surprise and sent England straight to the finals in Japan and South Korea.Dabizas, 51, started that match and never forgot the Manchester United legend’s stunner that denied his team their first ever win over the English.Read More on FootballThe Newcastle hero caught up with Beckham soon after in the Premier League for some belated post-match banter.Dabizas told SunSport: “Yes, after the game – if I remember correctly – possibly later in a match against Manchester United. Relatively very soon. I messed with him, [I told him] ‘You got yourselves out of jail’.”And he smiled. “[He laughed] It wasn’t a specific answer. [He’s] An absolutely normal guy.”But Dabizas always knew how special that “unimaginably good” free-kick was for both England and Beckham’s career.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd the ex-Leicester ace has fond memories of that match in Manchester as it marked the beginning of Greece’s journey to their historic Euro 2004 triumph under Otto Rehhagel.Dabizas added: “I think he had an excellent performance in the game against us in 2001. It was a landmark match for his career and it was the first strong sign we gave as a team with Mr Rehhagel for what was to follow as we were very competitive in the qualifiers.Premier League icon Nikos Dabizas names surprise EFL star who could be key to shutting down Jude Bellingham in England vs Greece”We convinced ourselves that we can stand in front of very high-level teams because that England national team had a lot of talent. And the team that went to Portugal in 2004 had a lot of talent despite having some issues then in English football.”Especially when they couldn’t capitalise on the characteristics they had as a team. They didn’t do that. They didn’t have the success they were capable of.”Beckham was certainly a footballer who had tremendous appeal in set-pieces. His hits were unimaginably good. One of the best in the world [in terms of] the way he hit the ball and the trajectory the ball took.”I believe it was a very special motion process. If anyone looks how he hit the ball will be able to understand that specialty that we mentioned.”It was the last stages of the match, there was a lot of pressure, we were ahead, we were playing if I remember correctly with three central defenders. That’s when that whole story started with Mr Rehhagel trusting the system of three central defenders more.”But I believe it was unavoidable with that part the game was on, when you have such an elite level footballer being able to get the ball either over the wall or the goalkeeper’s tight corner then I believe the difficulty level is very big.”And it had that result that it had in the last stages of the match. And England qualified with that draw to the World Cup.”READ MORE SUN STORIESGreece finally got their first ever win over England last month at their tenth time of asking after seven losses.Dabizas watched Ivan Jovanovic’s men win 2-1 as a pundit at Wembley and will hope for a repeat tonight in Athens. More

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      ‘I don’t really like it’ – Harry Kane blasts England’s NINE Nations League dropouts for ‘taking advantage’

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      HARRY KANE hit out at the NINE England players who have pulled out of the Nations League squad.Lee Carsley’s final camp as interim Three Lions boss has turned into a farce with so many withdrawals through “injury”.Harry Kane hit out at the nine England players to withdraw from the current campCredit: PAHe made his feelings clear in an interview with ITV SportThe FA decided to allow new gaffer Thomas Tuchel to take over as Gareth Southgate’s successor in the New Year.That has meant Carsley remains at the helm for two more matches – against Greece and Ireland – before stepping aside for Tuchel.However, it appears some players have seen this as an opportunity to skip international duty and make the most of a rare break in the hectic fixture list.Captain Kane, though, accused them of “taking advantage” of the unusual predicament of there being no full-time manager in post. READ MORE ON ENGLANDThe 101-cap striker, 31, told ITV Sport: “I think England comes before anything. It comes before club and it is the most important thing you play as a professional footballer.“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.“I don’t really like it if I’m totally honest. I think England comes before anything, any club situation. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“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.”In his last camp in charge, Carsley had an embarrassment of riches to choose from – and experimented by squeezing as many stars as possible into the starting XI against Greece.England’s international break is a mess before a ball’s been kicked This time he is scraping the barrel after the mass exodus of Premier League stars. Chelsea duo Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill both played 90 minutes of their side’s 1-1 with Arsenal on Sunday, while Phil Foden also completed Manchester City’s weekend defeat at Brighton.Yet all three pulled out of Carsley’s squad for this week’s two Nations League fixtures.Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice also withdrew on Monday after were both substituted against Chelsea – although Rice played for the Gunners despite having a broken toe.  I don’t really like it if I’m totally honest. I think England comes before anything, any club situation. Harry KaneTrent Alexander-Arnold limped out of Liverpool’s win over Aston Villa with a hamstring injury.Jack Grealish has missed City’s last six games while goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has a broken finger.  All three passed up the opportunity to meet up with their England team-mates and represent their country.Jarrad Branthwaite was drafted in as late cover following the mass exodus.But he then left the camp again to return to Everton for treatment on a “minor groin issue” and had his spot filled by Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah for what has turned out to be an important double header as Carsley bows out.READ MORE SUN STORIESEngland must defeat Greece in Athens by at least two goals tomorrow and then beat Ireland at Wembley on Sunday if they are to stand a realistic chance of winning their Nations League group and earning promotion back to the top tier. With nearly an entire potential starting XI absent through injury, the interim manager is expected to name a midfield three of Jude Bellingham, Conor Gallagher and Angel Gomes – who all play abroad – behind Bayern Munich’s Kane, while English-based players drop like flies.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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      Israeli football team forced to train in SECRET ahead of France clash amid fears of anti-Semitic bloodshed in Paris

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      ISRAEL have been forced to train in a secret location ahead of their controversial Nations League clash with France this week.Some 4,000 police, many of them armed, have been drafted in to provide security for a Stade de France crowd of barely 20,000 in Paris.The Israel national team has been forced to train in a secret hotel in France due to safety concernsCredit: RexFrench police stand outside the Stade de France stadium prior to Israel’s behind closed doors training sessionCredit: EPASAS-style special force RAID officers and up to 6,000 other cops are all scheduled to be on duty for the high-risk game – representing one officer for every three fans inside the ground.The high-alert security approach was already planned even before last week’s shocking scenes in Amsterdam around Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Europa League game at Ajax.Disturbing footage showed Israeli football fans being chased through the streets of the Dutch capital by an anti-Semitic mob last Thursday. This has prompted international concerns over the safety of Jewish fans particularly those watching Israeli-based teams.read more in footballAnd events in the Netherlands have only ramped up the need for special measures further in wake of rising anti-Semitic bloodshed in Europe. One of these precautions saw the Israel team being confined to their undisclosed hotel in the Val d’Oise region to the north of the capital.Constant armed guards were at the base and accompanied the players and staff to their training site on Tuesday.Authorities demanded the location be kept under wraps and all media activities were cancelled.Most read in FootballParis police chief Laurent Nuñez said security around the game was of extreme concern for the authorities.He said: “There’s a context, tensions that make that match a high-risk event for us.”There will be an anti-terrorist security perimeter around the stadium.”Inside Paris’ ‘patchwork of steel’ security op with AI surveillance, 45,000 cops & drones for most guarded Olympics everIsraeli security forces, including agents from the Mossad intelligence agency, will also be inside the stadium on Thursday.Many fans have stayed away with the Israeli government telling supporters to “categorically avoid attending” the match.Addressing the anticipated low attendance, Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano said: “I can understand why people do not want to come. It’s their choice. “We will fight on the pitch and aim to win this match. “This week we saw November 11. I love peace and hope that someday we will achieve it in every country. “Regardless of our religion or where we come from, we all want peace.”French President Emmanuel Macron and his prime minister, Michel Barnier, will also attend the match.Specialist RAID officers will join 6,000 cops to help protect Paris after the police chief labelled the game as a ‘high-risk eventOfficials have announced there will be at least one cop per three football fans in the capitalCredit: GettyRioters run through the streets amid disturbing clashes in Amsterdam between Israelis and an anti-Semitic mobCredit: REXMany people have called for the game to be moved to a neutral venue but Bruno Retailleau, France’s Interior Minister, said it was hugely important that the game went ahead in Paris.He said: “I think that for a symbolic reason we must not yield, we must not give up.”The RAID has been active since the Israeli team set foot on French soil, and they will be in the stadium.”The French government say they are determined to push ahead with the match as it will mark the two year anniversary of the 2015 terror attacks.ISIS thugs killed 130 people on a single night with chilling eruptions even being heard from the Stade de France on the harrowing evening. French FA chief Philippe Diallo insisted it would have been “unthinkable” for the match to be cancelled.Israel’s manager Ran Ben Shimon has told the press he and the team feel safe.France has already answered calls for tightened security around Israeli athletes after the 2024 Paris Olympics earlier this year.They deployed a widely successful “ring of steel” around the Games to ensure safety after several declarations of violence from terror group ISIS and anti-Israel parties.It became the most guarded Games ever with over 60,000 cops and soldiers, drones, helicopters and a huge increase in AI surveillance all deployed.Israel’s sporting calendar has been thrown into chaos since the war kicked off last October.Many of their games have been played at neutral venues due to fears over public safety.SAS-style RAID special forces are being deployed across Paris ahead of the France vs Israel matchCredit: AFPFrench cops surrounded the stadium ahead of Thursday’s clashCredit: EPAIsrael fans have been targeted at sporting events such as in the Paris OlympicsCredit: GettyBelgium, who are scheduled to play Israel on Sunday following the France clash, have already made the match be moved to Hungary.Israeli FA chief Shino Moshe Zuares added: “This is a very complex period for us. But we know what we represent, and we are proud to represent our country. “The events in Amsterdam only strengthen us, and we will not let hate and ignorance defeat us. “I am concerned and worried but we will face the situation and emerge stronger.”Away from the football, another Israeli-linked security fear comes in the form of a pro-Palestinian march.Thousands are expected to take to the streets of Paris on Wednesday – a day before the football clash – to demonstrate against a controversial pro-Israel gala.The “Israel is Forever” gala was originally set to be attended by Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich but he has since pulled out.Several controversial figures linked to Israel’s far-Right are expected to show – making life difficult for cops.Police chief Nuñez spoke on the gala and said: “A gala in a closed place is not a demonstration on the public road, so it is more complicated for a prefect to ban it.”I considered that there was no risk of disturbing public order but we will be attentive to the comments made and I can potentially take legal action.”An open letter by seven civil rights groups to the French media reads: “Holding this gala in the French capital constitutes an insult to international law and contempt for the United Nations and for the orders issued by the highest international court.”A counter-demonstration has also been announced and is expected to attract up to 8,000 people.Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, antisemitic violence has surged globally.It has been fuelled by heightened geopolitical tensions and polarising public discourse around the war.This escalation is marked by an alarming rise in physical attacks, threats, and hate speech targeting Jewish communities.In Europe, reports of antisemitism have spiked, with attacks on synagogues, Jewish schools, and individuals intensifying.Countries like Germany and France have seen notable incidents of physical violence and vandalism.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn Germany, synagogues were firebombed, and Jewish youth sports teams have reported attacks, reflecting a growing climate of fear.Public spaces associated with Jewish identity, including schools and cemeteries, have also required heightened police protection.Members of the RAID deescalating a situation in FranceCredit: AFPA match between Mali and Israel at the Parc des Princes in July 24 saw brawls up in the standsCredit: The Mega Agency More

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      ‘Chaos’ as Premier League stars forced to abandon Marbella training camp amid red weather warnings and flooding fears

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      PREMIER LEAGUE stars have been forced to abandon a training camp in Marbella following bad weather.Sweden flew to the Spanish coast in the hope of some warmer weather training ahead of their Nations League fixtures.Alexander Isak admitted he was ‘worried’ by the bad weatherCredit: RexBut they have been forced to return to Stockholm after weather warnings were issued in Marbella.Rain and thunder hit the popular tourist destination, weeks after Valencia was hit with tragic floods.Newcastle striker Alexander Isak was caught up in the storms and he shared his thoughts in a press conference along with Tottenham youngster Lucas Bergvall.Isak said: “I got a little worried. You’ve seen in other cities in Spain how it’s been, so it wasn’t very fun. Hopefully it won’t be too crazy.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“There was a lot of rain. It was not optimal. We had to modify the training a little. It was a little shorter, but we at least managed to get a little run in us.”Bergvall echoed his sentiments, adding: “It was chaos. Rain chaos. With thunder and all that. We had to stop early.”Sweden were preparing for matches against Slovakia and Azerbaijan.They are top of their group after four matches, level on points with Slovakia so would have to avoid defeat and likely need to beat Azerbaijan to win promotion to League A.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMeanwhile England’s Nations League preparation has also been far from ideal with eight players withdrawing from the squad.England visit Greece on Thursday and host the Republic of Ireland on Sunday in two Nations League clashes, with promotion back to the competition’s top tier at stake.Taylor Harwood-Bellis discusses being called up for the England squad for the first time Rice, Saka, Palmer and Colwill all started the 1-1 draw between Chelsea and Arsenal on Sunday but all have cried off international duty – Rice and Palmer after passing late fitness tests to play for their clubs.Midfield man Rice played with a broken toe on Sunday but will not be risked for England.Alexander-Arnold could face a lengthy lay-off with a hamstring problem after being substituted in the first half Liverpool’s win over Aston Villa on Saturday.Play VideoGrealish has not trained for two weeks and Carsley’s decision to include him in his squad sparked a sarcastic response from City boss Pep Guardiola.City right-back Kyle Walker has remained in the squad but is also believed to be a fitness doubt. More