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    Jude Bellingham CLEARED to face Switzerland in huge England Euro 2024 boost but still gets suspended ban over gesture

    JUDE BELLINGHAM has been cleared to play against Switzerland by Uefa.But the Three Lions ace has been hit with a massive fine and a suspended one game BAN.Jude Bellingham has been cleared to play against SwitzerlandCredit: RexThe England star was accused of disrespecting SlovakiaCredit: GettyBellingham defended his actions claiming it was an ‘inside joke’Credit: APEngland’s hero was the subject of an investigation by Uefa over a gesture he made after scoring  in Sunday’s 2-1 Euros win over Slovakia.Bellingham, 21, appeared to feign grabbing his crotch  in a move that signalled he has what it takes in a crisis.Match officials made no mention of the gesture in their match reports but Uefa still intervened.However, Bellingham has now been cleared of any wrongdoing and is set to line up against Switzerland.READ MORE ON EURO 2024The England star has been slapped with a £25,000 fine and a one-match ban, suspended for 12 months.The Real Madrid star defended his controversial gesture, stating it was aimed at close friends at the game and not towards the opposition.He added: “Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”Piers Morgan also leapt to Bellingham’s defence by outlining ten reasons why he may have made the gesture.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEngland’s five-point penalty shootout planEXPERT football psychologist Professor Geir Jordet has told Gareth Southgate and his players what they can do to give themselves the best chance of victory in any shootouts.And he has even thrown in a rogue, bold suggestion for the Three Lions manager…1. START PLANNING LAST YEAR “It’s about planning for the opposition’s penalty takers but also ‘how do we win the psychological game against each opponent?’2. SMART SOUTHGATE LEADERSHIP”Southgate will have two minutes to influence his players as effectively as possible, show he has a plan and get confidence across.”3. DICTATE AS A TEAM”A shootout is really a team performance. Have the goalkeeper walk with the penalty taker into the penalty area to basically create a two-versus-one against the other goalkeeper. Dominate the centre circle, support the players who missed.”4. ‘BULLETPROOF’ INDIVIDUAL ROUTINES “Have really good, individualised and rehearsed pre-shot routines that are bulletproof and polished so they’re more likely to be able to resist the stress and more likely to score.”5. SHOOT YOUR SHOT  “Practise the shot itself, trying to simulate penalty shootouts in training. Even recreating 20 per cent of a Euros final penalty shootout is going to have a benefit for your performance.”AND A JOR DROPPING IDEA…Jordan Pickford is the No1 but Dean Henderson actually has a far better penalty record – saving 8/22 (36 per cent) compared to Pickford’s 8/62 (13 per cent).Jordet said: “One could consider making a late substitution for a penalty shootout. I doubt that they dare to do it in case it fails and the pressure is even higher but it would be a very ballsy move.”One reason may be Bellingham wanted to show he had “massive cojones” after rescuing the Three Lions from the brink of elimination with his last-minute overhead kick.He even made the exact same gesture when he netted a late winner in Real Madrid’s 3-2 El Clasico victory against Barcelona in April.Jude Bellingham felt like Cristiano Ronaldo when he scored against Slovakia and singles out ‘humble’ England team-mateBellingham previously did the same celebration for Real Madrid against BarcelonaUefa outlined the results of their investigation on Friday morning.And they handed Bellingham a £25k fine, as well as a suspended one-match ban, for “violating the basic rules of decent conduct.”The FA were also punished for crowd disturbances and the lighting of fireworks, receiving a £9,000 fine.A Uefa statement read: “The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body has decided to fine the English Football Association €10,000 for crowd disturbances.”(It has also decided) To fine the English Football Association €1,000 for lighting of fireworks.”And to fine the English Football Association player Jude Bellingham €30,000 and to suspend him for a total of one UEFA competition match for which he would be otherwise eligible for violating the basic rules of decent conduct. “Said suspension is not immediately enforced and is subject to a probationary period of one (1) year, starting from the date of the present decision.”Turkey star Merih Demiral has been banned for two gamesHe scored both goals in Turkey’s 2-1 win over AustriaCredit: GettyBellingham isn’t the only player to foul fall of Uefa today.Turkey goal hero Merih Demiral has been banned for two matches for his controversial ‘Grey Wolf’ celebration against Austria.The symbol is linked with the far right in his country.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd after scoring both goals in Turkey’s 2-1 win in the last 16, he will now miss the quarter-final against Holland — and the semis if his side make it that far.A Uefa statement added: “The UEFA Appeals Body has decided to suspend Turkish Football Federation player Merih Demiral, for a total of two (2) UEFA representative team competition matches for which he would be otherwise eligible, for failing to comply with the general principles of conduct, for violating the basic rules of decent conduct, for using sports events for manifestations of a non-sporting nature and for bringing the sport of football into disrepute.”Crimes and punishmentsOther players have had the book thrown at them for making crude gestures. Here’s a list of some of the most famous offenders…Dele Alli was banned for one match by Fifa and fined £3,500 for raising his middle finger in a World Cup qualifier against… SLOVAKIA… in 2017. He claimed it was just a friendly joke aimed at Kyle Walker.Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone was slapped with a £17,000 fine for improper conduct for his bizarre crotch-grabbing celebration against Juventus in a Champions League first leg tie in 2019.Then-Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo then repeated the act when he scored against Atletico in the return leg and was hit with an identical fine. He escaped a ban though.Montpellier coach Rene Girard was hit with a one-match European ban and fined £4,000 for raising his finger to opposite number Huub Stevens at the end of a 2012 Champions League clash against Schalke 04. More

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    Outcry over Uefa probe into Jude Bellingham’s ‘crotch-grab’ goal celebration as fans plead ‘don’t ban him’

    SUPERSTAR Jude Bellingham has defended his groin-grab goal celebration as “an inside joke” and denied making fun of plucky Slovakia.The Three Lions’ saviour could be ruled out of Saturday’s quarter-final against Switzerland if Uefa decide he breached “basic rules of decent conduct”.Jude Bellingham has defended his groin-grab goal celebration as ‘an inside joke’ and denied making fun of plucky SlovakiaCredit: GettyBellingham scores England’s first goal in spectacular fashionCredit: ReutersGareth Southgate’s team were assured no disciplinary measures were being considered over the gestureCredit: AlamyBut Bellingham explained on social media: “An inside joke towards some close friends who were at the game.“Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”Moments after his astonishing 95th-minute bicycle kick strike spared England’s blushes, the Real Madrid ace was seen on TV making a hand gesture next to his crotch. It was believed that Jude was signalling he has what it takes to overcome a crisis — though some believed it was an insult aimed at the opposition bench.Read More on SportHarry Kane’s extra-time header sealed England’s 2-1 win on Sunday evening.Early yesterday, Gareth Southgate’s team were assured no disciplinary measures were being considered over the gesture.But Uefa then did a U-turn — despite the gesture not being mentioned in any match reports made by the officials.Fans reacted in fury with Max Veltman, 43, of Birmingham, saying: “It’s nonsense. It wasn’t offensive and Jude said so himself. Have Uefa got nothing better to do?Most read in Euro 2024“We’ve got no chance without Jude so we need to pray Uefa don’t ban him.”Sam Eversden, 45, from Uxbridge, West London, added: “Are Uefa policing goal celebrations now?The Sun’s Martin Lipton on Jude Bellingham’s potential ban as UEFA investigate gesture vs Slovakia“If they want to crack down on conduct and integrity, they should crack down on diving instead. Jude’s our main man.“He’s kept us in the Euros but without him we’ll be knocked out. He certainly shouldn’t get a ban. Save our Jude!”Fan Elaine Flower, 70, from Southampton, who has been to every England game at the Euros, said: “It’s daft to investigate something like this and clearly not worth a ban.“Common sense must prevail. He’s our best player and we need him to progress.“We’d have lost without his goal and we’ll need him more than ever in the next game.”Match of the Day host Gary Lineker said on Twitter/X: “For crying out loud, the Euro 2024 celebration police are looking into Jude Bellingham. Ridiculous!”The suggestion is Bellingham could have breached rule 11 2b into player conduct.A Uefa spokesman said: “A Uefa Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding a potential violation of the basic rules of decent conduct by the English Football Association player, Jude Bellingham, having allegedly occurred in the scope of this match.Aces rappedOTHER stars have landed in trouble for similar gestures. In 2019 Cristiano Ronaldo was fined £17,000 but avoided a ban for his Juventus goal celebration against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.Atletico boss Diego Simeone was also fined for his groin-grab gesture during the first leg.In 2017, England midfielder Dele Alli was banned for a match and fined £3,500 for raising his middle finger in a World Cup qualifier against Slovakia. He said it was a joke aimed at Kyle Walker.“Information on this matter will be made available in due course.”Bellingham has previously made a similar gesture when playing for Real Madrid, and after scoring a late equaliser for England in a friendly against Belgium in March.After Sunday’s dramatic win, he hit back at England’s critics saying: “You hear people talk a lot of rubbish. It’s nice when you can deliver and you can give them a little bit back.“For me, being on the pitch scoring goals and celebrating is my release.Bellingham explained on social media: ‘An inside joke towards some close friends who were at the game’Credit: InstagramBellingham playing cricket yesterdayCredit: Paul EdwardsBellingham could be ruled out of Saturday’s quarter-final against Switzerland if Uefa decide he breached ‘basic rules of decent conduct’Credit: Rex“And you know, maybe it was a message to a few people . . . but a very happy moment.”Yesterday Bellingham relaxed with a game of cricket, and was seen cupping his hands to catch a ball. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also shared a beaming selfie on his Instagram.Teammates raved about his goal on the England Lions’ Den channel posted online yesterday.Gary Lineker said: ‘For crying out loud, the Euro 2024 celebration police are looking into Jude Bellingham. Ridiculous!’Credit: BBCWriting off Swiss as no-hopers is cuckooSWITZERLAND is famed for cuckoo clocks and chocolate — but is also enjoying a golden era of football.The minnows have a team featuring world-class stars.Players such as ex-Arsenal star Granit Xhaka, 31, former Liverpool wizard Xherdan Shaqiri, 32, and Man City’s Manuel Akanji, 28, make them a force to be reckoned with.Midfield star Xhaka, their most capped player with 129, is the beating heart of the team and has just helped Bayer ­Leverkusen land the Bundesliga title in Germany.Historically, their best major tournament performance was 100 years ago — when they won silver at the 1924 Olympics.And the last time they reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup was 70 years ago. But they have risen steadily in the rankings over the past eight years.The Swiss made it to the last 16 during Euro 2016 and then achieved their best finish at Euro 2020, reaching the quarter-finals, having eliminated world champions France.The team has also reached the knockout rounds at the past three World Cups and is 19th in Fifa’s world rankings.They beat Italy 2-0 in this year’s Euros’ knockouts to clinch their clash with England.Roger Federer remains Switzerland’s most famous sporting hero. But this Swiss team remain determined to write its own page in history. More

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    Chelsea enter Conference League despite speculation they could snub Uefa competition after facing tough financial rules

    CHELSEA have been entered for the Conference League next season – despite the extra financial restrictions they will face from Uefa.Manchester United’s FA Cup Final triumph over Manchester City tipped the sixth-placed Blues into Uefa’s third competition.Chelsea have been entered for the Conference League next seasonCredit: GettyThis follows as the club will face extra financial restrictions from UefaCredit: ReutersIt also cost Chelsea £7m in up-front Uefa cash, adding to the Stamford Bridge club’s potential issues.There had been speculation that Chelsea might opt not to take up their place in the competition.All clubs playing in Europe must stick to Uefa’s spending limit of 80 per cent of their annual revenues on wages and transfers.Whereas Prem PSR rules allow losses of £105m over three years.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUefa, which has a fixed punishment schedule for breaches, will also not allow Chelsea to include switches of property assets to the club’s owner company in their accounts.But despite the concerns, Nyon chiefs have now confirmed Chelsea were entered in the Conference League by the FA.It means they cannot be replaced by Newcastle – who finished seventh in the Prem and were knocked out of Europe altogether by the Old Trafford club’s Wembley triumph.Chelsea have spent around £1billion on player transfers over the last two years, meaning they are now at risk of breaching the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIf found guilty of a breach, they could receive a significant points deduction.The Blues recently appointed former Leicester City boss Enzo Maresca following Mauricio Pochettino’s departure.A look at Chelsea’s forgotten wonderkidsPoch left Stamford Bridge by mutual consent last month despite having a positive end to the season.Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaENZO MARESCA is considered among the most exciting young coaches on the planet.Born in Italy in 1980, he managed to guide Leicester to the Championship title in his first season as Foxes boss.His management career started at Italian minnows Ascoli before he was snapped up by Man City in 2020 to manage their Elite Development Squad.He guided the youth team to the Premier League 2 title in his one season working for the Citizens – with Cole Palmer in the side.His first senior job was with Parma but he was sacked after just a few months after failing to impress.Despite the team playing in Serie B and Maresca having an impressive squad he was unable to get them on course for promotion.He returned to Man City and worked as one of Pep Guardiola’s assistants for the 2022/23 season as they won the Treble.He took over relegated Leicester last summer and made an immediate impact, with the Foxes winning the Championship title.Maresca showed his dedication to the job by living at the training ground for the first two months after his appointment.He’s considered something of a Pep disciple and has said: “For a coach, it’s important to have the mentality of a chess player.”During his playing career he played under Carlo Ancelotti and Marcello Lippi – and alongside ex-Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi.Premier League sides deducted points and others at riskNottingham ForestDeducted four points during the 2023-24 season for breaching Premier League spending limit by £34.563m. Failed in their appeal with decision upheld.EvertonInitial 10-point deduction for 2021-22 Premier League breaches reduced to six points on appeal. Were deducted a further two points later in the 2023-24 season. Appealed, but since withdrawn following Prem survival.Sheffield UnitedHit with a two-point deduction for their finances during the 2022-23 EFL season. Will begin the 2024-25 Championship season on -2 points following their relegation from the Prem.OTHERS WHO COULD FACE PUNISHMENT…Manchester CityEtihad club emphatically denies the 115 allegations laid against them in February 2023. The lengthy Commission case has been scheduled to start in October or November but a final decision is not expected until March or April 2025.ChelseaBlues chiefs flagged up illicit payments made to agents and others during the Roman Abramovich era. Fined £8.6m by Uefa but still to be formally charged by the Prem despite an ongoing investigation.LeicesterFoxes breached Prem PSR loss limits last season but did not have to report their 2022-23 accounts until this month because of their relegation. That puts the timetable back and means that they will probably face a Prem points deduction for the 2024-25 season following their return to the top flight.Everton (again)The Toffees are again at risk of breaking PSR rules and are in a race against time to raise funds and balance the books. Not only could that lead to another charge but also administration. That would lead to an automatic nine-point deduction for the 2024/25 season. More

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    England face Uefa charge following Euro 2024 clash against Slovenia after fans throw cups at Gareth Southgate

    ENGLAND may face a Uefa charge after beer cups were thrown towards Gareth Southgate last night.The Three Lions boss went over to applaud travelling supporters following the 0-0 bore draw with Slovenia in Cologne.Several cups were hurled onto the pitchCredit: RexGareth Southgate went over to clap fans after the matchCredit: GettySouthgate, 53, was met by anger from sections of the England support.Reports last night suggested that cups were hurled in his direction by frustrated fans.England had just been booed off following another lacklustre display.Despite the Three Lions’ underwhelming performances, they topped Group C after Denmark were unable to beat Serbia in Munich, with that game also finishing 0-0.READ MORE ON EURO 2024With Uefa trying to crack down on fan unrest, England could face a fine for last night’s cup-throwing exploits.Yesterday Denmark were ordered to pay £7,500 after their supporters unfurled an anti-Uefa banner during their 1-1 draw with England last week.The Three Lions could face a similar sanction.Following last night’s game, Southgate was asked about the unsavoury scenes at the end.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe said: “I understand it. I’m not going to back away from it.”The most important thing is we stay with the team. I understand the narrative towards me.Fans hail Anthony Gordon for ‘refreshingly raw’ TV interview after England’s bore 0-0 Euro 2024 draw with Slovenia EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY”That’s better for the team than it being towards them but it is creating an unusual environment to operate in.”I’ve not seen any other team qualify and receive similar. I’m not going to back away from it.”England will now play either Holland or a team from Group E, which consists of Romania, Belgium, Slovakia and Ukraine, in the round of 16.Spain, Germany, Portugal and France have all landed on the other side of the draw – meaning the Three Lions now cannot meet any of them until the final.On the challenges to come, Southgate added to ITV: “We have got to play well and whoever we play is going to be a really tough game.”We shouldn’t be seduced by which half of the draw. So many things are starting to come together. We had a lot of issues before the tournament.”I think the way the defence has played has been a huge positive and something to build on. We created chances but we just have to convert those chances.” More

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    Croatia boss Dalic hints at Euro 2024 ‘FIX’ scandal as he claims ref for Italy heartbreak ‘not designated by chance’

    CROATIA boss Zlatko Dalic angrily accused Uefa of a lack of “respect” after their dramatic draw to Italy in Leipzig.The Croats were on the verge of snatching a last 16 spot from the Italians in Group B thanks to Luka Modric’s 55th minute strike – moments after missing a penalty.Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic hit out at the ref after there were eight minutes added onCredit: GettyCroatia talisman Luka Modric was devastated after the defeatCredit: RexHowever, with 41 seconds remaining of EIGHT minutes added on, Mattia Zaccagni curled in a last-gasp beauty to all but knock Dalic’s men out of the Euros.Italy will now play Switzerland in the knock-out stages on June 29, while Croatia – on two points – are unlikely to squeeze through as a ranked third-place side.And Dalic raged: “The referee tore us apart the whole match, he wasn’t sent to that match by chance.”I don’t know where the referee found those eight minutes of stoppage time. I was talking about Uefa and Fifa, you didn’t support me in that.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”But that’s not the reason, I want to say it no matter how much some people criticise me, it’s a fact. I can’t escape the impression that this is so.”There were six substitutions, so three minutes maximum. And it was VAR minutes, so four minutes maximum, he put eight.”He continued: “We are a small country. Whether it is Uefa or Fifa, no one gives us too much thought. You cannot have eight minutes added time. It is a nonsense.“There weren’t too many breaks or fouls to justify that. Croatia needs to be respected and recognised because once again we played for almost three hours.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“Were it France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, that wouldn’t happen. We had a similar experience at the Qatar World Cup.”Modric – who became the oldest ever scorer at a Euros at 38 and 289 days – was distraught at the full-time whistle, admitting it was one of the toughest results of his career on his 178th international appearance.Watch moment frustrated Luka Modric walks out of interview after reporter’s question following Croatia’s Euro 2024 drawCroatia can only have themselves to blame after a woeful group stage run, losing 3-0 to Spain before conceding a late leveller to draw 2-2 with Albania.And Dalic – who could now lose his job after leading Croatia to a World Cup final and semi-final since taking charge in 2017 – added: “It really hurts.“It still hurts and it will over the coming days and months. It’s not easy. But when we look at the situation there are some days when it’s your day and just not your day.“We need to stick together in defeat with humility and keep our heads high. I hold my hands up, I’m the one to blame if we haven’t made it through. I just want to thank my players.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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    Denmark chiefs will make own fans pay Uefa fine for X-rated banner shown in Euro 2024 draw with England

    DANISH FA chiefs are on the hunt for the fans who landed them with a £7,500 bill from Uefa.Copenhgan-based bosses were hit with the fine after fans unfurled a “F*** Uefa” banner during the Danes’ 1-1 draw with England.Danish bosses were hit with the fine after fans showed an X-rated banner directed at UefaCredit: GettyBut Denmark will make their own fans pay the huge Uefa billCredit: GettyAs yet unidentified Denmark fans made and displayed the X-rated dig at Uefa during the first half of their bore draw with England in Group C.The reasons the supporters issued the banner are unknown.Director Erik Brogger Rasmussen said: “We will pay the fine but the most important thing for us is that we identify those who brought the banner in – and then we will pass the bill on to them.“We hope that those who think of taking a banner with that sort of language on it into a match will think twice when they have to pay for it.”READ MORE ON EURO 2024Uefa have previously got involved when England play Denmark, as they issued a £26,600 bill to the FA for three incidents in the Euro 2020 semi final.Television pictures showed a green light on Danish keeper Kasper Schmeichel’s face just before Harry Kane took an extra-time penalty.The huge fine by Uefa was also for “disturbances during the national anthems” and fireworks being set off.Meanwhile Uefa have been forced into opening multiple disciplinary proceedings for a host of different reasons during Euro 2024.Most read in footballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSUefa fines at Euro 2024 The governing body also fined the Albanian and Serbian federations £8,400 each for fans displaying banners with nationalist maps. Both countries were charged with “transmitting provocative messages not fit for a sports event” because they are responsible for the conduct of their fans at stadiums.Man detained at Manchester Airport after fan trouble before England v Serbia as he has passport taken awaySerbia fans’ banner included the independent territory of Kosovo and a slogan “No Surrender” at a 1-0 loss against England in GelsenkirchenUefa’s latest measure was targeted at Albania’s striker Mirlind Daku, who was suspended for two games after leading fans in chanting anti-Macedonian slogans after Albania’s 2-2 draw with Croatia.Daku was hit by FOUR charges – breaking the general principles of conduct, violating basic rules of decent conduct, using a sporting event for non-sporting reasons and bringing the game into disrepute.Albania were also fined a total of £40,000 for fans lighting fireworks, a pitch invasion and banners carrying a “provocative message”.Croatia were fined just under £24,000 for their fans lighting and throwing fireworks.Uefa stripped tournament accreditation away from a Kosovan journalist after he directed an Albanian “eagle” sign towards Serbia fans during the 1-0 England loss.Fans invading the pitch has also been a regular feature in the first two weeks at Euro 2024.Kosovo and Serbia tensions
    Kosovo and Serbia share a tumultuous past, with a war lasting from 1998-1999 – ending when NATO initiated an aerial bombardment campaign against Yugoslavia.
    The Western-backed intervention thwarted Serbia’s genocide of Albanian Kosovars, which was led by Serbia’s then-President Slobodan Milošević.
    In the two decades since the conflict ended, tensions have been simmering, with strained relations coming to a head again in December of last year.
    Ethnic Serbs in northern Kosovo erected barricades in the divided city of Mitrovica using trucks loaded with rocks – crippling the region.
    Serbia still refuses to recognise Kosovo’s statehood.

    EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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    BBC apologise for showing replay of worrying Barnabas Varga collision as Gabby Logan criticises Uefa protocol breach

    THE BBC apologised after viewers were showed a replay of Barnabas Varga’s shocking injury during Scotland’s Euro 2024 defeat to Hungary.The Hungarian striker, 29, was rushed to hospital following a collision with Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn.Gabby Logan explained Uefa broke their own protocol by showing a replayHe received lengthy medical treatment on the pitch, with members of security staff holding a privacy screen around him as he lay on the floor.Despite concerns for Varga’s condition, a replay of the sickening incident was screened to fans across the continent – including millions of Brits watching on BBC 1.The BBC, as well as ITV, uses Uefa’s global feed when showing games from the tournament.That means they have limited control over what is shown.READ MORE IN EURO 2024And after the incident was replayed, UK TV screens instead cut away to a wide angle shot out of respect for the stricken player.Speaking after full time, BBC presenter Gabby Logan explained Uefa broke their own protocol by showing the replay.She said live on air: “We were as shocked as you when they replayed that incident. “There are protocols around this kind of thing after Christian Eriksen three years ago and we were very surprised that Uefa decided to show that replay, which is why we cut away immediately to a wide angle as soon as we could.”Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYLogan later revealed Varga was in a stable condition after being taken to a Stuttgart hospital.Sheets were brought out to cover Varga with several team-mates including Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai seen in tears.Declan Rice hits back at Gary Lineker and Co after England stars slammed over dismal Denmark draw at Euro 2024Inside Barnabas Varga’s rise from semi-pro to Euro 2024

    BARBABAS VARGA has enjoyed a meteoric rise from semi-pro leagues of Austria and Hungary to the Euro 2024 finals.
    The Hungary striker played for six seasons, between 2010 and 2016 for SV Eberau in the Bergenlandliga – the regional fourth tier of Austrian football.
    A record of over a goal every other game earned Varga a shot at the big time with with SV Mattersburg in the Austrian Bundesliga.
    However, he scored only once in just 16 games over the next three seasons before dropping down to the second tier with SV Lafnitz.
    After a mixed spell, Varga’s next step was to his homeland, again in the second tier, with Gyirnot in 2020.
    That’s where it began to click for Varga and his eye for goal saw top division Paksi FC swoop.
    Varga scored almost a goal a game in his first season with Paksi, finishing as the top scorer in the Hungarian league.
    That earned the late bloomer an international debut, at the age of 28, in a Euro 2024 qualifier against Bulgaria.
    One his third cap, away to Serbia, he netted his first Hungary goal.
    Last summer, Varga joined Hungarian giants Ferencvaros and again got the golden boot as his side won the league, the first silverware of his career.

    Varga was carried off on a stretcher and was reportedly conscious and communicating with medical staff on his way to hospital.The lengthy delay resulted in ten minutes added time, with Kevin Csoboth proving the hero for Hungary with a 100th minute winner.The substitute held up Varga’s shirt as he celebrated with his team-mates.Hungary head coach Marco Rossi said in his post-match interview: “Barnabas Varga’s life is not in danger.”He will undergo an operation after fracture in his face and he won’t be available for the rest of Euro 2024.”Hungary Euro 2024 guideA DECADE ago Hungary’s glory days seemed gone forever, but they’ve now qualified for three European Championships in a row.
    A 4-0 win away to England and an unbeaten qualifying campaign shows how dangerous the Hungarians can be on their day.
    MANAGER: Marco Rossi
    One of five Italian coaches at Euro 2024, Rossi has been granted Hungarian citizenship after revitalising the national team during his six years in charge.
    STAR MAN: Dominik Szoboszlai
    Hungary’s captain had a fine start to life at Liverpool before getting injured and losing his form.
    How Hungary attack
    Hungary will slow things down in possession as they look to draw an opposition press.
    From there, they will then tend to his a longer ball over the top of through the opposition defence.
    How Hungary defend
    Hungary will tend to split their press with three players engaging the opposition defence on the ball and the rest sitting deep.
    When this is unsuccessful, it can lead to the opposition finding plenty of space to attack.
    Read the full Hungary Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags More

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    Euro 2024 star slapped with two-game ban for encouraging offensive chants as Uefa confirm four charges

    ALBANIA’S megaphone man Mirlind Daku will miss tonight’s final group tie with Spain after being hit with a two-match Uefa ban for inciting supporters.Daku, 26, who plays for Russian side Rubin Kazan, picked up the loudspeaker at the end of Albania’s 2-2 draw with Croatia.Albania’s Mirlind Daku will miss tonight’s final group tie with SpainCredit: GettyHe picked up a megaphone at the end of Albania’s 2-2 draw with CroatiaCredit: GettyThis followed Daku being hit with a two-match Uefa ban for inciting supportersCredit: GettyHe then encouraged Albanian fans to chant nationalist songs that denigrated Serbia.The Serbian FA were so angry that they threatened to QUIT the tournament if Uefa did not take action, prompting a full enquiry.And now  Uefa chiefs have confirmed their punishment among a series of sanctions arising from the game in Hamburg.Daku was hit by FOUR charges – breaking the general principles of conduct, violating basic rules of decent conduct, using a sporting event for non-sporting reasons and bringing the game into disrepute.READ MORE IN EURO 2024The player apologised after the game, saying he was “sorry if I offended anyone” and adding: “The effect of the game did such things to me.“Like any footballer, the emotions in these moments are on another level, which can only be understood on the pitch.“It is difficult to describe the feeling of playing for this national team, for these wonderful fans who give us unconditional love.”But Uefa have now come down hard, announcing the two-game ban which means Daku cannot play until the last eight if Albania go that far.Most read in Euro 2024If they miss out, he will be ruled out for their opening Nations League game in September.Albania were also fined a total of £40,000 for fans lighting fireworks, a pitch invasion and banners carrying a “provocative message”.Watch as Switzerland supporter is smacked in face by ball but fans can’t get over Scot’s reaction in front of himCroatia were fined just under £24,000 for their fans lighting and throwing fireworks.But further fines could follow as Uefa added: “Please be aware that the investigation/proceedings in relation to potential racist and/or discriminatory conducts by supporters in this match is ongoing.”Who is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?
    EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.
    Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.
    But who is the sexiest?
    Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.
    And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.
    In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.
    While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.
    But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story. More