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    Thomas Tuchel takes swipe at Arsenal boss Arteta as he risks club vs country row by vowing not to rest England stars

    THOMAS TUCHEL will show no mercy to Prem bosses by refusing to rest England stars.And that is because the Three Lions chief says his club counterparts do not care about international managers.Thomas Tuchel has a strong retort for any worried Prem bossesCredit: GettyTuchel spoke out on Mikel Arteta’s use of Declan Rice for ArsenalCredit: GettyTuchel will resist the temptation to make sweeping changes for tonight’s World Cup qualifier against Latvia at Wembley.He insists his coaches will not ‘break our heads’ worrying about rotation — pointing out Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta did not rest Declan Rice for a Champions League tie with PSV Eindhoven.The German said: “Given the fact Declan Rice played in the second leg with Arsenal after a 7-1 first-leg lead, I didn’t have the feeling they think so much about us.“So I don’t think we have to break our heads about this.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS“I take care of the players. We take care about the schedule.  But it would be the wrong signal to tell players now ‘you have tough (club) matches coming up, so I rest you now’.“We have a qualifier to play, we do what’s good for us. We are in contact with the clubs, we are in high-level monitoring where the fitness statuses are known and we won’t take any unprofessional risks.”Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola had ‘never been so angry’ as when John Stones returned injured after Tuchel’s predecessor Gareth Southgate started the defender in two England friendlies in four days last year.But Tuchel claims he never asked players to skip internationals while manager of Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, where he managed Harry Kane.Most read in FootballPep Guardiola was angry over England’s use of John StonesCredit: The TimesBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHe said: “This window is at a time where clubs play a crucial part of the season.“They play for championships and  quarter-finals in the Champions League. We’re well aware of it but we also have our own goals and targets. The players are keen to play and it has to be like this.’I don’t expect anything’ Roy Keane savages England star after below-par display in Thomas Tuchel’s first game“I never pushed any national coach because I hoped my players did get picked, I was also hoping they are proud to play.“You’re never happy if something happens. No one can predict there is no accident, but  we’ll take responsible decisions.“I feel responsible for the players. I want the players to play in the quarter-finals of the Champions League — all of them — because I want to watch it.”A hip injury has forced Anthony Gordon to return to Newcastle for treatment. The winger, 24, limped off down the tunnel after Friday’s 2-0 win over Albania. More

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    Cristiano Ronaldo takes ‘worst penalty ever’ in Nations League play-off as fans say ‘Hojlund got in his head’

    CRISTIANO RONALDO took the “worst penalty ever” as fans said “Rasmus Hojlund got in his head.”The 40-year-old’s side arrived chasing a 1-0 deficit from the first leg after Hojlund netted the winner in Copenhagen.Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo missed the ‘worst penalty’ ever against DenmarkFans joked Rasmus Hojlund had left CR7 rattled after his ‘Siu’ celebration in mid-weekCredit: GettyThe Man Utd star then toasted the strike by imitating Ronaldo’s “Siu” celebration.Prior to Sunday’s return leg, CR7 snapped at a journalist after questions over his form.Ronaldo also urged Portugal fans to get behind the team and help them reach the Nations League semis.But the iconic forward spurned a glorious opportunity to give the home support something to cheer about in Lisbon.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith just five minutes on the clock, Portugal were gifted an incredible route back into the game when they won a penalty.Ronaldo, who has scored a record 135 international goals, stepped up to the spot.BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSBut after taking his traditional run-up, the striker hit a tame effort at goal.Denmark goalie Kasper Schmeichel easily collected the shot.Most read in Football’Bro you don’t look like me, you’re very ugly’ – Cristiano Ronaldo destroys lookalike fan at Al-Nassr matchInside Cristiano Ronaldo’s incredible lifeAS arguably the greatest player of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo lives a life befitting such a superstar.And Ronaldo was left with his head in his hands as Portugal fans groaned in despair.Meanwhile, other supporters flocked online to react to Ronaldo’s missOne said: “That’s one of the worst penalties I’ve ever seen.”Another declared: “Rasmus Hojlund got into the head of Ronaldo.”One noted: “Last week Hojlund turned into Ronaldo, so this time he turned up as Hojlund.”Another added: “Why didn’t he full power it?”Ronaldo would go on to help Portugal book a Nations League semi-final spot, and even scored, as they sunk Denmark 5-2 after extra time for a 5-3 aggregate win.The Portuguese found their equaliser in bizarre circumstances, with Joachim Andersen heading into his own goal to make it 1-0 on the night and 1-1 on aggregate.However, Denmark netted in the 57th minute through Rasmus Kristensen, who scored in the right net with a back-post header very similar to Andersen’s own goal.Ronaldo then finally did grab his goal with a strike in the 72nd minute.But Denmark went back ahead when Christian Eriksen tapped home moments later.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, Portugal managed to send the game to extra time thanks to a sublime 86th minute effort from Francisco Trincao.The winger and Goncalo Ramos then struck in the added half-hour as the home side went through. More

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    Nations League play-off descends into chaos as fans invade pitch and fight in stands in shocking scenes

    A NATIONS LEAGUE play-off match between Armenia and Georgia descended into utter chaos at the sound of the whistle.Fans poured onto the pitch in Georgia in scenes that saw fighting, objects being thrown and a pitch invasion.Fans poured onto the pitch following Georgia’s win over Armenia in the Nations LeagueCredit: X @robananyanHundreds of supporters flooded the playing surfaceCredit: X @robananyanFans were seen hopping barriers to get on the pitchCredit: X @robananyanCrowd trouble occurred in the stands tooCredit: X @robananyanPolice and stewards tried to stop the chaosCredit: X @robananyanThe game, which ended in a 6-1 win for Georgia, had seen tensions rise, but the whole thing boiled over after full-time.Video taken at the game showed hundreds of supporters leaping over seats and barriers to get on the pitch after the final whistle.While supporters could be seen hurling objects at other sections of the ground.A report from Armenian journalist Robert Ananyan claimed that Georgian fans were throwing objects towards Armenian fans.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPolice and stewards inside the stadium were attempting to calm the chaos, but the sheer number of fans causing havoc prevented there from being much of an impact.Georgia and Armenia are neighbouring countries, but at present there is no known reason behind the chaos inside the ground.In fact, earlier this week the two nations announced a shared bid to co-host the 2029 U20 World Cup.Fans initially seemed to enter the pitch in order to ask for shirts and take pictures with the players.Most read in FootballFans seemed to initially invade to pitch to get photos with playersCredit: GettyKhvicha Kvaratskhelia was mobbed by fans at full-timeCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe incident could now result in Georgia fans being handed a stadium ban.Willy Sagnol’s team face Turkey and Bulgaria in World Cup qualifiers in September.Shock moment Aston Villa & Celtic fans clash before Champions League showdown as FLARE launched towards home supportersGeorgia’s dominant 6-1 win on the night was spearheaded by a top performance from PSG star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.The star winger netted Georgia’s sixth goal, joining Georges Mikautadze, Giorgi Chakvetadz and Otar Kiteishvilli on the scoresheet.The 9-1 aggregate win means that the Georgians will remain in League B of the Nations League next season.While Armenia be stuck in League C, despite a positive campaign that saw them finish second in their group.Khvicha Kvaratskhelia starred as Georgia won the gameCredit: GettyArmenia will remain in League C of the Nations League following their defeatCredit: Getty More

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    Scotland 0 Greece 3 (Agg 1-3) – Steve Clarke & stars BOOED by Tartan Army as Scots relegated after Nations League defeat

    SCOTLAND supporters can’t get a bevvy at the fitba.But tonight Hampden was filled with boos.Giannis Konstantelias celebrates scoring the first goalCredit: PAGreece wonderkid Konstantinos Karetsas made it two before half-timeCredit: ReutersGreece players celebrate Christos Tzolis goal to make it 3-0Credit: PAThe Tartan Army let their feelings known after this sobering Nations League relegation play-off defeat to Greece.Steve Clarke said just weeks ago he was 75 percent certain he’d be leaving as Scotland boss when his contract ran out.If there’s more of this when the World Cup qualifiers kick off, there will be zero debate about it.If his team were awesome in Athens they were God-awful in Glasgow to turn out one of their worst performances during his six years in the job.Clarke stood out on the touchline after it was all over and looked forlorn by the defeat and the reaction to it.But he’s had enough praise during his tenure in the job.The abuse he got from the fed-up is just something he’s going to have to accept.The punters were expecting so, so much better going into this decider with a 1-0 lead and yet the team did what they did in the last two major tournaments.Most read in FootballThey failed to turn up.And like in Germany in the summer, Clarke has to take his share of responsibility for yet another dire display in a game that mattered.Emotional moment Scotland fans pay tribute to Denis Law against Greece as Sir Alex Ferguson joins in with classy gestureThis wasn’t the Germans, Spain or Croatia – this was Greece who tore our team apart.Put it this way, before kick-off there was a magnificent tifo for the late, great Denis Law who passed away in January.But if heaven has a TV screen then the Law Man would have been forgiven for reaching for the remote.Let’s get it right, Greece were well worth their win.Their white-haired veteran boss, Ivan Jovanovic, played an absolute blinder.In Athens last Thursday night, he had his side firing cross after cross into the Scotland penalty box.And Scotland lapped it up.Centre-backs Grant Hanley and John Souttar positioned themselves brilliantly that night and got their heads on everything that came their way.This time, Greece played. Boy, did they play.Their 17 year-old wonder-kid Konstantinos Karetsas looked the part when he stepped on the bench in the first-leg.It was no surprise that he started this decider and was fed the ball at every opportunity.How Scotlad stars rated against GreeceCRAIG GORDON – quiet start to 81st cap but exposed by defence at all three of Greece’s goals. Little he could do as the scorers were given time and space to net. Got away with poor kick late on 6TONY RALSTON – terrific in first leg despite lack of action for Celtic. Was sold short by Christie at second Greek goal and didn’t let his country down in an unflashy showing 6GRANT HANLEY – seventh 90 minutes of the season and sixth for Scotland. Dropped deep to play Greece onside before recovering. Bailed out by Souttar’s goalline clearance after weak challenge on Pavlidis allowed him in 5JOHN SOUTTAR – Rangers man has been such a steadying influence at the back. He and Hanley found themselves sitting deep at Greece opener. Brilliant goalline clearance saved his defensive partner 6ANDY ROBERTSON – skipper was up against wonderkid Konstantinos Karetsas on 82nd appearance. First goal came down his side then dragged inside to leave him free to score second. Subbed 4BILLY GILMOUR – usual energetic display from the wee man as one of the two sitters alongside McLean. Started by snapping into tackles and bursting forwards with purpose. Boos rung out when subbed before hour 5KENNY McLEAN – passing was crisp to begin with. First-time ball teed up McTominay for early effort that was saved. Less successful when tried the more ambitious balls and drifted out of things. Subbed 5RYAN CHRISTIE – replaced Ferguson after ban for first leg but game to forget. Sloppy in possession then ball watching in buildup to second. Slack pass seconds after restart teed up Greek third. Lucky to last 73 minutes 3SCOTT McTOMINAY – writers’ international player of the year started well and saw early effort saved then another deflected into side netting. Great close control and strength but almost anonymous after the break 5JOHN McGINN – quiet 75th cap for the Aston Villa skipper and struggled to influence things until latched onto McTominay pass on half hour and saw shot saved. Great late pass for Tierney chance 5CHE ADAMS – Early penalty claim waved away after taking tumble. Great hold up play to start with, epitomised in one moment which saw him win a foul. Became isolated as Greece’s dominance grew. Subbed 4SUBSKieran Tierney (3) left wing role and late chance saved, George Hirst (3) booked on Hampden bow then nodded chance over, Lewis Ferguson (4) so unlucky to be dropped. Cautioned for catching Karetsas with arm, James Wilson (2) 18-year-old Hearts kid was given his debut, Tommy Conway (2) did little.The Greek’s front-foot, high press was also brave and bold.Karetsas was on the right and always ready to pounce and it was the same with Giannis Konstantelias on the left.Those were the two who scored the two first-half goals to put the visitors on their way towards victory.The first, after 20 minutes, was a decent finish from Konstantelias after he slammed a cut-back past Craig Gordon.The second, four minutes before the break, was just sensational from little teenager Karetsas.His one-touch, left foot curling shot didn’t give the Scotland No1 a hope.Clarke’s side did have moments at 0-0.Scott McTominay was Scotland’s biggest threat with John McGinn bringing the best stop from goalkeeper Kostas Tzolakis.Che Adams also had a half-hearted shout for a penalty but the Italian ref was never going to give it/But there was something sadly missing from the performance from the men in dark blue.The effort was there, sure.Gilmour saw plenty of the ball too and tried to dictate play from the anchorman role.But it was only decent to a certain point.Clarke only made one change to his line-up that started in Athens with Ryan Christie coming in for Lewis Ferguson.But the Bournemouth midfielder didn’t bring his outstanding club form to Hampden.He was ball-watching at the Greece second goal and the man who played a terrible square pass that led to the third.Coming just 17 seconds part the beginning of the second half, it was a disastrous restart for Scotland.Konstantelias did brilliantly to make the most of it by slipping in the cleverest of little reverse passes to striker Christos Tzolis.He then controlled his finish past Gordon.But it was dire stuff from a Scotland point of view.Sir Alex Ferguson leads emotional tribute to Denis Law in Scotland’s first home clash since Man Utd legend died at 84Why Clarke hadn’t made any personnel changes at the break was a complete mystery bordering on a dereliction of duty.His team was crying out to be altered but, for whatever reason, he opted to sent the same men back out.It was only after 54 minutes that he made a triple change.But even Clarke’s thinking there was muddled too.Taking off Kenny McLean and Adams made sense but Gilmour didn’t deserve the hook.It was a decision booed by the Tartan Army with the Napoli playmaker clearly unhappy himself as he shook his head as he trudged off the park and sat on the bench.It was no reflection on the three who came on – George Hirst, Kieran Tierney and Ferguson – who all added freshness.But Gilmour and the supporters had every right to be annoyed.As the clock ticked on, it was clear as day Scotland weren’t going to get the goals needed to turn it around.Clarke made two more changes after 72 minutes with Christie and skipper Andy Robertson replaced by Tommy Conway and young James Wilson for his debut.The fans were happier with those decisions but nothing really changed.Greece held their shape magnificently and did the hard graft needed to protect their lead.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd after a late, late Tierney chance the final whistle brought more jeers from the fed-up fans left inside the stadium with thousands already in the pub.Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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    BBC forced to apologise for technical issues for Scotland vs Greece clash as viewers are left without commentary

    THE BBC was forced to apologise for technical issues after viewers watching Scotland vs Greece were left without commentary.The Nations League battle saw both sides compete to remain in Group A.The BBC apologised after fans were left without commentary for Scotland vs GreeceHosts Scotland took a 1-0 league into the crunch clash as Sir Alex Ferguson led tributes to late Manchester United legend Denis Law.But fans watching at home were immediately left scratching their heads at kick off.As the two sides started playing, it became clear that there had been no commentary in the moments preceding kick-off.The match then started, with still no sound heard from the commentary box.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut the BBC appeared to be clearly aware of the issue.And an apology was swiftly flashed across the bottom of the screen.It read: “We apologise for lack of commentary.”The match then saw panellists in the studio also issue a message.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThey said: “We apologise for the lack of commentary. We’re currently having technical difficulties.”Fortunately for fans, the commentary eventually resumed.BBC forced to apologise for technical issues as Scotland vs Greece clash as viewers are left without commentaryBut this time, it was several seconds out of sync with the live action.It saw fans flock to social media to complain about the situation.One said: “BBC having a mare here.”Another declared: “Outstanding coverage of the national team here.”One noted: “Dear BBC, can you please sort the sound out.”Another added: “Fix the sound, it’s like someone telling you what happens before you’ve watched something.” More

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    Thomas Tuchel’s first away game as England manager faces being moved to completely different country over stadium issue

    THOMAS TUCHEL could be heading to BARCELONA – for his first away game as England manager.England will play away to Andorra in a World Cup qualifier on June 7.Thomas Tuchel is first preparing for Latvia on Monday eveningCredit: GettyTuchel’s third game in charge is likely to be at Espanyol’s RCDE StadiumCredit: GettyIt will be the first time for Tuchel to play at a venue outside of Wembley, as England face Latvia on Monday night after beating Albania 2-0 on Friday.The Andorran Football Federation are considering switching the game to Espanyol’s 40,000-capacity RCDE Stadium, which means many more England fans would be able to travel.Andorra were hoping England would open their new stadium in the town of Encamp but it is unlikely to be ready.The last time England played in Andorra was under Gareth Southgate in October 2021 and the match was staged at the Estadi Nacional in the capital, Andorra la Vella, but the ground only holds 3,000.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSo the Andorrans are considering going to Espanyol’s stadium to make more money and are in talks with the Spanish giants although a deal has yet to be agreed.England played Andorra in Barcelona in both 2007 and 2008, with both games at the Olympic Stadium.For now, Tuchel is focused on making it two wins in two qualifiers on Monday. And he’s still on a high from launching his reign, albeit with a modest performance against Albania.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe German said: “It still feels great. I love the group of players. “Now we’ll try to squeeze the best out of them.”’I don’t expect anything’ Roy Keane savages England star after below-par display in Thomas Tuchel’s first gameBut Tuchel has already shown he is willing to give frank verdicts on individual displays.He admitted wingers Marcus Rashford and Phil Foden “were not as impactful as they normally can be”.The ex-Chelsea boss added: “I’m not too sure why we struggled to bring the ball to them quicker and to bring the ball in more open positions to them.”I think we lacked a little bit runs off the ball. So it was a bit too much passing and not enough dribbling.”But Tuchel was gushing about Jude Bellingham, who was England’s creator in chief.He said: “He is always ready to give everything.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Jude is and will be a key player for us. And he is happy to take the responsibility.“He’s always able to make the difference so we need to find the structure to make the most of it.” More

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    Thomas Tuchel scraps Gareth Southgate’s England tradition but move splits fans with some branding it ‘nonsense’

    THOMAS TUCHEL divided fans with numbers – after ditching one of Gareth Southgate’s England traditions.The new boss used squad numbers for his starting team, whereas predecessor Southgate had preferred the good old one to 11.Goalscorers Myles Lewis-Skelly and Harry Kane did a number on AlbaniaCredit: RexEngland lined up for the World Cup qualifier with their squad numbersThe only figure Tuchel might care about is the 2-0 margin by which the Three Lions saw off Albania in their World Cup qualifying opener.But many supporters were split after he abandoned Southgate’s nostalgic numbering, having also opted not to sing the national anthem before the match.It meant history-making Myles Lewis-Skelly wore the No 23 – which is five above his age.And England’s other full debutant, 32-year-old Dan Burn, was at 12.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne fan demanded a return to Southgate’s simplicity.He wrote: “England need to go back to 1-11 numbers on their shirts. What is this number 12, 17 & 23 in the starting XI nonsense?”Another said: “Why squad numbers? Should be 1-11.”But other viewers reckons it all just adds up to Tuchel going with the flow – by assigning squad numbers and keeping them for the games.Most read in FootballEngland ratings vs Albania as Lewis-Skelly enjoys dream debut but Tuchel fails to solve Foden issue By Tom BarclayMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY made history and Harry Kane extended his own record-breaking as England sunk Albania in Thomas Tuchel’s first game.Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to score on his Three Lions debut and top goal-getter Kane notched his 70th international strike as Tuchel began his World Cup qualifying campaign with a modest 2-0 win.New boy Dan Burn partnered Ezri Konsa in central defence at Wembley, while Marcus Rashford and Curtis Jones were also handed starts.Meanwhile, Tuchel wrestled with the same issue faced by predecessor Sir Gareth Southgate – deciding where to fit in Phil Foden.Left-back Lewis-Skelly, 18, slotted home on 20 minutes following a delightful turn and even better pass from Jude Bellingham.But England stuttered after the break – until skipper Kane classily took down a Declan Rice pass and curved home the clincher.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated the Three Lions in German manager Tuchel’s opening match…BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSOne even claimed: “By far the most encouraging sign for England’s future under Thomas Tuchel is that they appear to have adopted permanent squad numbers instead of the starters always wearing 1-11.”Meanwhile, a few fans were more intrigued by irked.Thomas Tuchel prefers the highs and lows of squad numbersCredit: RexOne such observer posted: “Interesting seeing #England not wearing numbers 1-11!”In the end the debate didn’t subtract from an important victory, albeit one that was far more solid than scintillating.And apart from the scoreline, only two figures really stood out.The first was Lewis-Skelly scoring aged only 18 years and 176 days.So by 33 days he surpassed Marcus Rashford as the youngest player to net on his England debut.And the second noteworthy number was skipper Harry Kane rounding off the Wembley triumph with his 70th international goal.That takes Kane 17 clear of second-placed Wayne Rooney in the all-time list of Three Lions’ scorers. More

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    Emotional moment Myles Lewis-Skelly’s nan is spotted going wild in Wembley crowd after his historic England goal

    MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY’S family were spotted emotionally celebrating his record-breaking debut England goal.The Arsenal star was given his first senior cap by new Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel – against Albania at Wembley.Myles Lewis-Skelly scored on his England debutCredit: GettyHe became England’s youngest debut scorerCredit: GettyLewis-Skelly’s grandmother and sister were spotted hugging after his goalMembers of the family cheered on from the stands at WembleyAnd it took just 20 minutes for left-back Lewis-Skelly to repay Tuchel’s faith as he latched onto Jude Bellingham’s stunning pass and slotted past keeper Thomas Strakosha.And at the age of 18 years and 176 days, he became the youngest player EVER to score on his his first England cap.Lewis-Skelly surpassed the record set by team-mate Marcus Rashford – who did so at 18 years and 209 days against Australia in May 2016.Rashford, 27, was coincidentally making his first international appearance in a year in England’s World Cup qualifying opener.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLewis-Skelly’s family were seen going wild in the Wembley stands after the opening goal.ITV cameras picked up the wonderkid’s grandmother and sister cheering and hugging.Lewis-Skelly said after the game: “I’m lost for words. I am so grateful for the manager to put trust in me. I am so happy.”The fans made me feel at home so thank you to them.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSTuchel said: “Amazing player. Amazing personality.”He came into camp and showed straight away that it’s normal to fall in love with him. It is well deserved.”Myles Lewis-Skelly lost for words after finding out he has broken England recordCaptain Harry Kane sealed a 2-0 win as Declan Rice also hailed his Gunners team-mate Lewis-Skelly.Rice said: “He is fearless. He does everything right off the pitch and he is only 18.“I knew he was going to play like that tonight because of the confidence he has.“He has kept his feet on the ground and it is only the start for him.”Declan Rice hailed Gunners team-mate Lewis-SkellyLewis-Skelly and Rice pose after the winCredit: Getty More