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      Harry Maguire booing is borderline bullying and Southgate criticism is bulls***, blasts ex-England ace Ashley Young

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      ASHLEY YOUNG is convinced England can win the World Cup — and has urged the country to get behind manager Gareth Southgate and the players.A key member of the Three Lions’ 2018 team that made the  semi-finals in Russia, Young believes criticism of Southgate is “bulls**t” and claims the booing of Harry Maguire has been “borderline bullying”.
      Manager Gareth Southgate and centre-back Harry Maguire have both come under ‘ridiculous’ flak, according to Ashley YoungCredit: Getty
      Villa veteran Young is urging England fans to ‘get behind every single player’Credit: Getty
      The Aston Villa veteran, included in the provisional 55-man squad for Qatar, has told the nation’s fans to prepare for an incredibly successful tournament run, which starts with Monday’s opener against Iran.
      Young, 37, told SunSport: “There is something special coming from this England team. The country has to get behind them.
      “Get behind every single player. Don’t single them out. Get behind all of them to go out and win  this tournament.
      “From the time Gareth has taken over, he has made a difference. These players will be more than ready.
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      “With the way the Euros went, I give us every chance of going to the tournament and winning it.
      “The criticism Gareth Southgate is getting is absolutely ridiculous. It  is bulls**t.
      “Because he has not taken a team into the latest final of the Nations League, people think that he should be criticised.
      “Of course, going into a  tournament you want to be winning games. But Gareth has totally changed what it is like to be with England.
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      “In previous years, under other managers when I was there,  players were pulling out because they did not enjoy it.
      “They were not injured. Gareth has managed to get the nation together.”
      Young, who has 39 caps, has also backed under-fire former United team-mate Maguire to star despite his torrid time at Old Trafford.
      He said: “You are going to be criticised because you are captain at one of the biggest clubs in the world. But the criticism he is  getting has gone too far.
      “He can play well for England and gets booed. He can play well for United and he gets booed. It is borderline bullying.
      “But he is a  strong character and can deal with it.”
      Young is the ultimate proof that no player should ever give up on his international dreams.
      James Maddison and Callum Wilson landed in Doha for World Cup duty yesterday despite neither featuring for England in three years.
      Marcus Rashford is also back, even though his last kick for England was a missed penalty in the Euro 2020 final against Italy 16 months ago.
      After an absence of four years and two months, Young was recalled by Southgate for a friendly against Brazil in November 2017.
      Newcastle striker Callum Wilson and Leicester playmaker James Maddison arrive in Doha despite not playing for England since 2019Credit: Getty
      Despite not featuring in any of the qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup, Young enjoyed the best few weeks of his career, playing at left wing-back during that joyride to the semi-finals in Russia.
      Young recalled: “It was  amazing to be involved with England again.
      “When you are not called up for four years, the chances of you getting a call-up to go to one of the  biggest tournaments in world  football is pretty slim.
      “I am one of those people who never says no. I never retired.
      “It is always a boy’s dream to  represent their country — but to do it on the biggest stage at the World Cup . . . I don’t think words can  actually describe how I felt.
      “Just getting that recognition was incredible, then the tournament was just unbelievable.
      “I had been in  previous squads. The Euros in 2012 was tough, at times. Different  managers had been in there and with the players, there was a club divide, a north-south divide.
      “Under Gareth, it was all so  different. Everyone was sat with each other, talking. There were no people on their own. Everyone’s hotel doors were open and there were no cliques at all.
      “It was an amazing group. So much talent. It was Gareth’s first tournament and he was a manager that wanted to prove he could take this team to the  next level.
      “As soon as we got to Russia, that feeling spread to the squad and we thought we could do something special.
      “The FA staff made our hotel in Russia so homely with lots of nice touches.
      “These hotels at a tournament can often be boring but not this place. Gareth also let our friends and family visit.
      “Also, there was a camaraderie between the press and the players and I had not seen that before.
      ‘KILLS ME TALKING ABOUT IT’
      “After the first game against Tunisia, H (Harry Kane) scored that late winner and it was like ‘you know, this could be the tournament’. We went on to do so well.”
      Young turned 33 just two days before the semi-final, which England lost 2-1 to Croatia after extra-time.
      It was his 39th and final international appearance and his voice starts to crack with emotion when talking about the clash in Moscow.
      He said: “I cannot watch it. We should have won it. We should have got to the final. Even now, it kills me trying to talk about it. I don’t like hearing about the game, either.
      “I know how good an opportunity we had as a group. We were naive in the second half.
      “After the tournament I said to Gareth: ‘I will never rule myself out playing. I know you will go with younger players and I totally agree.
      “I am not retiring so if you ever need me, if you ever want to recall me, you can do, as long as I am playing well. It is down to you’.”
      Even though he was not a serious contender to get into Southgate’s final 26 for Qatar, Young was included in the 55-man squad.
      He added: “To get in this 55 for Qatar shows you I must have been doing something right.
      “I was joking with someone from the FA who messaged me about the squad. I was like ‘This has to be a joke, surely?’
      “I will retire from international football when I retire from football. I can still play at the highest level.
      “I always say to players, just never give up on your dream — I never gave up.” More

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      Karim Benzema leaves training after just 15 MINUTES ahead of World Cup, but France claim absence was planned

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      KARIM BENZEMA left France training after just 15 minutes today, but Les Bleus claim that his early exit was planned.The Real Madrid star has been suffering with a muscular injury of late.
      Karim Benzema briefly trained alongside Kylian Mbappe and CoCredit: AFP
      The 34-year-old left the session after just 15 minutesCredit: Getty
      Since Madrid’s 3-0 win over Elche on October 19, Benzema has made just one substitute appearance for his club – a 26 minute cameo against Celtic earlier this month.
      The reigning Ballon d’Or winner was named in Didier Deschamps 26-man squad for the World Cup, but appears to still be working his way back to full fitness.
      According to RMC Sport, Benzema left today’s training session alongside a physio after just 15 minutes.
      They add that he had not even touched a ball by the time he departed to do solo work.
      READ MORE WORLD CUP NEWS
      Despite his oddly short session, France coaching staff claim that Benzema’s reduced workload was pre-planned.
      The rest of the squad all continued training, although Raphael Varane and Aurelien Tchouameni also did not finish the session.
      Following the duo’s departure, Christopher Nkunku was then struck by a devastating injury that has subsequently ruled him out of the World Cup.
      The RB Leipzig attacker was caught late in a 50-50 challenge with Eduardo Camavinga.
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      He immediately writhed in pain before limping off alongside team doctors.
      Nkunku, 25, then underwent medical tests that have ruled him out of the tournament.
      France are set to jet out to Qatar tomorrow.
      They will kick off their campaign next Tuesday evening against Australia in Al Wakrah, before facing Denmark and Tunisia.
      Christopher Nkunku limps out of France’s training sessionCredit: Getty More

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      France star Christopher Nkunku OUT of World Cup as Chelsea target is injured in training by wild Camavinga tackle

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      CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU is OUT of the World Cup after he sustained an injury in France training.The RB Leipzig star limped out of Les Bleus’ session at their Clairefontaine base after being on the end of a late challenge.

      Christopher Nkunku was caught late in a 50-50
      Nkunku, 25, writhed around in painCredit: Getty
      The RB Leipzig star was forced to limp out of the sessionCredit: Getty
      Training footage obtained by French outlet RMC Sport appears to show Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga inadvertently catching Nkunku late in a 50-50 tackle.
      The attacker immediately showed his discomfort, sitting on the ground and shaking his hand at the pain.
      Chelsea target Nkunku appeared to be caught on the ankle by the late challenge.
      He was initially said to be confident that he would still be able to make the trip to Qatar.
      READ MORE WORLD CUP NEWS
      But, following medical tests, France have confirmed that Nkunku will miss the tournament.
      In a short statement, they wrote: “Injured in training, Christopher Nkunku must give up participating in the World Cup.
      “The whole group shares Christopher’s sadness and wishes him a speedy recovery.”
      The French squad are set to fly out to the Middle East tomorrow.
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      France get their World Cup campaign underway with a clash against Australia next Tuesday in Al Wakrah.
      A match against Denmark will follow that Saturday, before they round off their Group D campaign with a game vs Tunisia on November 30.
      France boss Didier Deschamps has already had to tinker with his squad.
      After initially only naming 25 players, Deschamps decided to call up Marcus Thuram as his 26th man.
      Following an injury to Presnel Kimpembe, he also opted to call up uncapped Monaco defender Axel Disasi.
      French outlet RMC Sport claim that Eintracht Frankfurt striker Randal Kolo Muani is set to be called up as a late replacement for Nkunku.
      Marcus Thuram was the final player called up to Didier Deschamps’ initial 26-man squadCredit: AFP More

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      World Cup 2022 LIVE: England squad ARRIVE in Qatar, Ronaldo RETURNS to training, Nkunku RULED OUT of tournament – latest

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      ENGLAND have touched down in Qatar preparing to start their World Cup journey, hoping to end 56 years of pain.Prince William paid the stars a brief visit prior to wish them good luck ahead of the huge tournament and gifted each player their own personalised package.
      England are scheduled to play Iran in their opening fixture on Monday, November 21.
      Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to the training pitch for the first time since his interview with Piers Morgan.
      Ronaldo, 37, could win international cap 192 when Portugal face Nigeria on Thursday.
      And France have confirmed that Christopher Nkunku has been ruled out of the World Cup following Eduardo Camavinga’s reckless tackle in training.
       Bet £10 on Golden Boot winner and get £2 FREE BET each time they score or assist
      Stay tuned with all the latest ahead of the tournament…
      EXCLUSIVE: Young reflects on 2018 heartache
      Ashley Young admits it still “kills” him discussing Croatia’s comeback win in Russia four years ago.
      He said: “I cannot watch it. We should have won it. We should have got to the final.
      “Even now, it kills me trying to talk about it. I don’t like hearing about the game, either.
      “I know how good an opportunity we had as a group. We were naive in the second half.”
      This time lads, this time.
      EXCLUSIVE: Maguire booing is ‘borderline bullying’, says Young
      Ashley Young, who has 39 caps, has also backed under-fire former United team-mate Maguire to star despite his torrid time at Old Trafford.
      He said: “You are going to be criticised because you are captain at one of the biggest clubs in the world. But the criticism he is  getting has gone too far.
      “He can play well for England and gets booed. He can play well for United and he gets booed. It is borderline bullying.
      “But he is a  strong character and can deal with it.”
      EXCLUSIVE: Southgate has changed culture, says Young
      Gareth Southgate has changed what it means to play for England, says Ashley Young.
      He added: “The criticism Gareth Southgate is getting is absolutely ridiculous. It  is bulls**t.
      “Because he has not taken a team into the latest final of the Nations League, people think that he should be criticised.
      “Of course, going into a  tournament you want to be winning games. But Gareth has totally changed what it is like to be with England.
      “In previous years, under other managers when I was there,  players were pulling out because they did not enjoy it.
      “They were not injured. Gareth has managed to get the nation together.”
      EXCLUSIVE: ‘Special’ England team can win it all, says Young
      Ashley Young is convinced England can win the World Cup — and has urged the country to get behind manager Gareth Southgate and the players.
      The Aston Villa veteran, included in the provisional 55-man squad for Qatar, has told the nation’s fans to prepare for an incredibly successful tournament run, which starts with Monday’s opener against Iran.
      Young, 37, told SunSport: “There is something special coming from this England team. The country has to get behind them.
      “Get behind every single player. Don’t single them out. Get behind all of them to go out and win this tournament.
      “From the time Gareth has taken over, he has made a difference. These players will be more than ready.
      “With the way the Euros went, I give us every chance of going to the tournament and winning it.”
      BREAKING: Nkunku to miss World Cup
      Christopher Nkunku’s World Cup hopes are reportedly over after he sustained an injury in France training.
      The RB Leipzig star limped out of Les Bleus’ session at their Clairefontaine base after being on the end of a late challenge.
      Training footage obtained by French outlet RMC Sport appears to show Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga inadvertently catching Nkunku late in a 50-50 tackle.
      The attacker immediately shows his discomfort, sitting on the ground and shaking his hand at the pain.

      Nkunku appeared to be caught on the ankle – putting his hopes of playing in Qatar in jeopardy.
      Fabrizio Romano then tweeted: “Christopher Nkunku will miss the World Cup due to injury in today’s training session.”
      Football crazy
      Paul has travelled tens of thousands of miles to tournaments including Italia 90, France 98, and Brazil 2014.
      He jetted to USA 1994 despite England not even qualifying – and travelled to Japan and South Korea in 2002 by bus, train and boat.
      The 7,000 mile journey – via Iran, Pakistan and China – took two months and raised £5,000 for charity.

      Paul the other one
      A footie-mad dad is set to share a world record – by attending TEN World Cups in a row.
      West Brom fan Paul Dubberley, 63, first watched England crash out to Maradona’s Hand of God in Mexico.
      When he lands in Qatar this month he will have visited every tournament since 1986 – across all corners of the globe.
      And he will match the Guinness World Record for the number of consecutive contests – set by a Venezuelan businessman at Russia 2018.

      England’s fixtures
      A reminder of England’s World Cup fixtures over the next couple of weeks.
      Southgate’s Three Lions will look to finish top of the group and start with a healthy win on Monday against Iran.

      You can’t do that Bud!
      Budweiser has been told to hide its beer stalls at World Cup stadiums after Qatar’s royal family wanted alcohol to be less visible.
      The Muslim-majority nation agreed to sponsorship from Budweiser when it launched its bid for the World Cup, which kicks off on Sunday.
      Alcohol is allowed in hotel bars, restaurants and other places that are away from public view but these restrictions have been relaxed for tournament.
      The installation of beer stations outside eight stadiums has been underway for most of the last month.
      But late last week a senior Qatari royal asked for the beer concessions to be moved to less visible sites, the New York Times reports.

      More on World Cup boozing
      Those who want the alcohol-free version of the beer will have to splash out £6.91, with water at £2.30.
      World Cup chiefs have wrestled with the demands from Fifa for drink to be available for fans with the customs of the Gulf State and the desire for supporters to stay under control and not booze to excess.
      Budweiser stated that fans will be limited to a “maximum purchase of four Budweiser units per person.”
      This is to prevent binge-buying and anyone must prove they are over 21 to be able to buy alcohol.
      How much?
      England World Cup fans must cough up nearly £12 for LESS than a pint as pre-tournament promises proved a Doha desert mirage.
      Qatar 2022 organisers had indicated that the country’s strict drink laws and sky-high prices would be relaxed for fans coming from across the world.
      While hotel bars were expected to be expensive, suggested prices for beer in the fan zones and at stadiums had been in the range of £7-£8 per pint.
      But now official beer suppliers Budweiser – the only company allowed to sell alcohol in any official site at the World Cup – have unveiled the shock booze news.

      In an advertising flyer posted by the American brewing giant, the price list makes clever that hopes of normal-priced beer for travelling fans have disappeared.
      Urging fans to “Drink Wiser, Cheer Better, Hydrate Between Buds”, a half-litre of Budweiser – equal to seven eighths of a pint – will cost 50 Qatari Rials, or £11.61 at today’s exchange rate.
      Saka’s smooth response
      Arsenal fans were left beaming after Bukayo Saka gave a confident response to Man City star Kyle Walker over this season’s title race.
      England stars have now headed to Qatar for the winter World Cup.
      It saw Arsenal and Man City stars collide for the first time since September’s international break.
      And Etihad icon Walker couldn’t resist asking Gunners favourite Saka a cheeky question as they greeted each other.
      Walker asked: “When are you guys going to stop winning?”
      But Saka was cool as a cucumber as he instantly replied: “Don’t worry about that bro!”

      Three Lions jet makes a statement
      England flew on a Gay Pride jet — to show a red card to host nation Qatar’s intolerance.
      Boss Gareth Southgate and skipper Harry Kane led the 26-strong squad on board “Rain Bow”, a Virgin Atlantic A350 Airbus.
      It features a motif of Oscar — the airline’s LGBTQ+ Union Jack-trailing flying icon — beneath the cabin.
      The gesture was proposed by FA chiefs keen to register concern about gay rights in the strict Muslim state where homosexuality can still carry the death penalty.
      Southgate has vowed to make a stand.
      He said: “We’re very strong on inclusivity. We understand the challenges that this tournament brings . . . the human rights challenges.”

      More on England flight
      The Three Lions flight, scheduled for 10am, eventually departed Birmingham Airport at 10:41 this morning – landing in Qatar at 4:57pm UK time

      England are set to get their tournament underway against Iran next Monday.
      They will then face the USA on Friday, 25 November – before completing Group B with a home nations clash against Wales on Tuesday, 29 November.
      England are staying at the Souq Al Wakra Hotel in Qatar, with the Three Lions having booked all 101 rooms.

      Today’s journey
      Some England stars were in Premier League action as recently as Sunday, before linking up at the national training base at St George’s Park yesterday.
      Earlier today Southgate and Co were given an incredible send-off as they departed St George’s Park.

      The England manager was greeted by a sea of screaming kids waving flags and cheering him on.
      Many reached out to Southgate and he began high-fiving the children, leaving them ecstatic by doing so.
      With the crowd stretched out so far he had to wave to the others before boarding the coach to the airport.
      BREAKING: Three Lions arrive in Qatar
      Skipper Harry Kane led England stars off the plane as the Three Lions arrived in Qatar.
      Gareth Southgate’s men have touched down in the Middle East tasked with ending 56 years of hurt – having come so close to winning Euro 2020 last year.

      Prince of the pack
      The Prince, who is the President of the FA, also shared a message with the Three Lions squad.
      He said: “What you and Gareth have built here is something special, that’s clear to see.
      “Play for each other, support each other, enjoy it, and I’m sure you’ll go far.
      “I’m really here to point out the rest of the country is behind you, we’re all rooting for you. Enjoy it.”
      ‘Pride in the shirt’
      The boxes also contained a message from manager Gareth Southgate, which Maguire shared on social media.
      It read: “Qatar 2022 will only be the 16th time England have appeared at a World Cup.
      “As we represent over 55 million people, of all ages from every community, you will also remember everyone who has helped you reach this point.
      “Wear your shirt with pride and embrace the opportunity to make history.”
      Kane also shared a photo on Instagram of the moment he received his package from Prince William, which he captioned: “Pride in the shirt 🦁🦁🦁.”

      Prince William showers England squad with personal gifts
      Prince William presented every England player with their own personalised package before the World Cup.
      The Prince of Wales met the squad on Monday before they flew out to Qatar today.
      He spoke to the whole group and was seen laughing with Harry Kane, Jack Grealish and Kieran Trippier after handing out his gifts.
      Each member of the squad was presented with their shirt number and the history behind it.
      The box told the stars how many England players have worn their number before and at which World Cup.

      ‘Truly an honour’ to play for England, says Wilson
      England hot shot Callum Wilson claimed he knew in 2017, that he’d return to Qatar as part of his nation’s World Cup squad.
      He said: “Back in 2017 I was in Qatar doing rehab work on my ACL injury when I said to myself ‘I’ll be back here in 2022 to play in the World Cup’. 
      “So to now be on the verge of flying to Qatar with England for the tournament is truly an honour and I’m determined to grasp this opportunity with both hands.
      “I 100 per cent believed what I was saying at that time. Anyone that knows will know exactly what I was doing when I said that to myself back in 2017. 
      “I set my mind to a target I wanted to achieve and whilst it has been a long and whirlwind five years, it’s one that I’ve enjoyed and has gotten me to the point where my hard work can continue on the World Cup stage.”
      Will ‘Super Jacky Grealish’ be a No1 hit?
      All profits from the album will help fund Stonewall’s work to combat LGBTQ+ oppression in Qatar and across the world.
      Other noteworthy tracks on the album include England favourites ‘Super Jacky Grealish’ and ‘England till I Die’ as well as a World Cup take on ’12 Days of Christmas’.
      The new rendition cheers on the squad, name-checking Gareth Southgate, Harry Kane, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.
      The album of World Cup terrace anthems has been available to stream on Spotify and to buy on iTunes since Tuesday, November 15.
      Credit: Getty
      What is on Crouchy World Cup CD?
      Eight-track charity album ‘Crouchy Conducts The Classics’ also features orchestral versions of ‘Who Ate All The Pies’ and ‘We Love You England’.
      Ex-Tottenham and Liverpool striker Crouch makes his conductorial debut in the concept album which has been created in partnership with bookmaker Paddy Power, who have launched a record label to support the new release.
      The Stoke legend, 41, leads a 20-piece orchestra through a canon of terrace anthems, supported by a full gospel and chamber choir and three world class operatic soloists, including Potts, who mesmerises with his stirring rendition of ‘You’re Not Singing Anymore’.
      Crouch said: “I’ve always dreamed of releasing my own album – so what better time than during a World Cup at Christmas?”
      Crouchy’s Christmas album
      Former England hero Peter Crouch has released a Christmas album with opera star Paul Potts – mashing football terrace chants with classical music.
      The unlikely collaboration in time for the World Cup sees the duo deliver a unique twist on popular fan songs such as ‘Enger-land, Enger-land Enger-land’ and ‘V.A.R My Lord. V.A.R’.

      Back to business for Ronaldo
      Cristiano Ronaldo returned to the training pitch for the first time since his interview with Piers Morgan as he linked up with his Portugal teammates.
      The 37-year-old missed Manchester United’s last two games through illness, but he was back on the grass today.
      Ronaldo could win international cap 192 when Portugal face Nigeria on Thursday.
      Credit: Getty
      Mane injury update
      Senegal have confirmed that Sadio Mane will miss the “first games” of the World Cup.
      The Bayern Munich star suffered a leg injury last week and looked set to miss the tournament.
      But Mane was named in the squad by Aliou Cisse and will now be hoping to play some part, although he will sit out the games with Holland and Qatar.
      Load more entries… More

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      Are Man Utd playing while the 2022 World Cup is on? Mid-season fixtures, TV channel and kick-off times

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      ERIK TEN HAG will be hoping all 16 of his players return safely from the World Cup – but Manchester United have mid-season business to attend to in the mean time.Alejandro Garnacho’s stoppage time winner saw the Red Devil’s snatch all three points from Fulham in their last Premier League outing.
      Alejandro Garnacho scored the winning goal for Manchester United against FulhamCredit: Rex
      And with Garnacho failing to make the cut for Argentina, fans can expect to see more of him in United’s upcoming friendlies.
      Find out who the Manchester giants have been scheduled to play below…
      Who are Manchester United playing during the World Cup?
      Manchester United have organised a winter training camp in Spain for the players who will not be involved at the World Cup.
      Wednesday December 7

      Cadiz vs Manchester United – 7pm GMT –

      Saturday December 10

      Real Betis vs Manchester United – 5pm GMT

      Read more on Man Utd
      What TV channel will Manchester United’s friendlies be on and can I live stream them?
      Both matches will be shown LIVE on MUTV in the UK.
      Subscription members can also watch the action on the club’s 24/7 streaming platforms which is available via the United app or ManUtd.com.
      What has been said?
      Manchester United’s football director John Murtough believes that the two friendlies are a great opportunity for Premier League return preparation.
      And it also provides Erik Ten Hag with the chance to give some of the younger players a run out.
      Most read in Football
      Murtough said: These matches will help ensure that our whole squad is prepared for the resumption of club football after the World Cup, as we look to maintain our positive momentum into the second half of the season. 
      “The week-long training camp and matches against Cadiz CF and Real Betis Balompie will also provide an opportunity for some of our younger players to experience what it is like to train within a first-team environment, as well as play against two competitive La Liga sides.” More

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      Is Arsenal playing while the 2022 World Cup is on? Mid-season fixtures and kick-off times

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      ARSENAL fans will be distraught that the season has been paused due to the World Cup – but they’ll still get to see parts of their side in action.The Gunners are scheduled to travel to Dubai to as part of their preparations for the Premier League return on Boxing Day.
      Arsenal concluded the first part of their Premier League season with a win over WolvesCredit: PA
      And the North London club could encounter some familiar faces in the Dubai Super Cup.
      SunSport have all the required information below…
      When is the Dubai Super Cup?
      The Dubai Super Cup is set to take place from Thursday, December 8 to Tuesday, December 13.
      It is scheduled to happen at the Al Maktoum Stadium in Dubai.
      Read more on Arsenal
      Al Maktoum Stadium is the home ground of Al Nasr SC which has a capacity of 15,000.
      There will be a league format with each win carrying three points, however, a draw earns you two points.
      And there will be a penalty shoot-out at the end of each game regardless of the score where the winner will receive a bonus point.
      Whoever has the most points at the end of the tournament will be crowned Dubai Super Cup champions.
      Most read in Football
      Who will Arsenal be playing at the Dubai Super Cup?
      Arsenal will be playing two fixtures against two top European opposition.
      Thursday December 8
      Arsenal vs Lyon – 3:30pm GMT
      Tuesday December 13
      Arsenal vs AC Milan – 2pm GMT
      Liverpool are the fourth side who will feature in the Dubai Super Cup but they cannot play Arsenal due to both sides Premier League involvement.
      What has Mikel Arteta said about the Dubai Super Cup?
      “We’re looking forward to spending time together on the training pitch in a warmer climate.
      “It’ll be a nice change of environment and a great opportunity for us to work hard and prepare for the second half of the season.
      “Dubai is a fantastic place and the football facilities there are first-class.
      “The Dubai Super Cup also gives us the opportunity to test ourselves against two strong sides in Lyon and AC Milan – it’ll be a great experience for the squad.” More

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      Premier League sides with most players at World Cup revealed… but how is YOUR club affected by Qatar 2022?

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      ENGLISH football has been confirmed as the World Cup’s most-represented domestic set-up.Fifa have confirmed the full squad lists for the tournament, with every nation except Iran taking up their full allocation of 26 players.

      And 160 of the 831 players selected across the 32 teams – around 19 per cent – ply their trade in England or Wales.
      Prem sides are set to be decimated over the next six weeks.
      Manchester City have the most players heading to Qatar – with 16 of their stars having been selected.
      In fact, of their starting XI that took on Brentford on Saturday, only Erling Haaland will NOT be at the tournament.
      READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
      Of City’s 16, Kyle Walker, John Stones, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Kalvin Phillips are in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
      The next most represented Prem side is Manchester United – with 14 Red Devils heading to the Middle East.
      They include wantaway Cristiano Ronaldo, following his explosive interview with The Sun’s Piers Morgan – as well as his Portugal team-mates Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot.
      While Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford are in the Three Lions set-up.
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      Chelsea are next up with 12, although it would have been even more had Ben Chilwell, Reece James and N’golo Kante been fit.
      Chilwell and James would have joined club mates Mason Mount, Raheem Sterling and Conor Gallagher in the England set-up.
      Tottenham have 11 stars at the tournament, including captains of England and South Korea respectively Harry Kane and Son Heung-min – as well as France skipper Hugo Lloris – victorious last time out in 2018.
      Kane will be joined in the Three Lions squad by Eric Dier – while Richarlison and Cristian Romero will fancy their chances with Brazil and Argentina respectively.
      Arsenal have ten players going to Qatar, including England trio Aaron Ramsdale, Bukayo Saka and Ben White.
      Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli will team up with club rival Richarlison for Brazil – while William Saliba will have a good shot at glory with France.
      Surprisingly Brighton are next with eight call-ups – including impressive Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma.
      Leandro Trossard will be in action for Belgium, while Alexis Mac Allister is in the Argentina squad alongside Lionel Messi and Co.
      Prem players picked for World Cup
      Arsenal: Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli (Brazil), Aaron Ramsdale, Bukayo Saka, Ben White (England), William Saliba (France), Thomas Partey (Ghana), Takehiro Tomiyasu (Japan), Granit Xhaka (Switzerland), Matt Turner (USA)
      Aston Villa: Emiliano Martinez (Argentina), Leander Dendoncker (Belgium), Jan Bednarek, Matty Cash (Poland)
      Bournemouth: Chris Mepham, Kieffer Moore (Wales)
      Brentford: Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon), Mathias Jensen, Mikkel Damsgaard, Christian Norgaard (Denmark), Saman Ghoddos (Iran), David Raya (Spain)
      Brighton: Alexis Mac Allister (Argentina), Leandro Trossard (Belgium), Moises Caicedo, Pervis Estupinan, Jeremy Sarmiento (Ecuador), Tariq Lamptey (Ghana), Kaoru Mitoma (Japan), Robert Sanchez (Spain)
      Chelsea: Thiago Silva (Brazil), Mateo Kovacic (Croatia), Mason Mount, Raheem Sterling, Conor Gallagher (England), Kai Havertz (Germany), Hakim Ziyech (Morocco), Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal), Cesar Azpilicueta (Spain), Denis Zakaria (Switzerland), Christian Pulisic (USA)
      Crystal Palace: Joachim Andersen (Denmark), Jordan Ayew (Ghana)
      Everton: Amadou Onana (Belgium), Jordan Pickford, Conor Coady (England), Idrissa Gueye (Senegal)
      Fulham: Joao Palhinha (Portugal), Aleksandar Mitrovic (Serbia), Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream (USA), Harry Wilson, Dan James (Wales)
      Leicester: Youri Tielemans, Timothy Castagne, Wout Faes (Belgium), James Maddison (England), Daniel Amartey (Ghana), Nampalys Mendy (Senegal), Danny Ward (Wales)
      Leeds: Rasmus Kristensen (Denmark), Brenden Aaronson, Tyler Adams (USA)
      Liverpool: Alisson, Fabinho (Brazil), Jordan Henderson, Trent Alexander-Arnold (England), Ibrahima Konate (France), Virgil Van Dijk (Netherlands), Darwin Nunez (Uruguay)
      Man City: Julian Alvarez (Argentina), Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium), Ederson (Brazil), Kyle Walker, John Stones, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Kalvin Phillips (England), Ilkay Gundogan (Germany), Nathan Ake (Netherlands), Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva (Portugal), Rodri, Aymeric Laporte (Spain), Manuel Akanji (Switzerland)
      Man United: Lisandro Martinez (Argentina), Casemiro, Fred, Antony (Brazil), Christian Eriksen (Denmark), Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Marcus Rashford (England), Raphael Varane (France), Tyrell Malacia (Netherlands), Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot (Portugal), Facundo Pellistri (Uruguay)
      Newcastle: Bruno Guimaraes (Brazil), Nick Pope, Kieran Trippier, Callum Wilson (England), Fabian Schar (Switzerland)
      Nottingam Forest: Brandon Aguilera (Costa Rica), Cheikhou Kouyate (Senegal), Remo Freuler (Switzerland), Wayne Hennessey, Neco Williams, Brennan Johnson (Wales)
      Southampton: Armel Bella-Kotchap (Germany), Mohammed Salisu (Ghana)
      Tottenham: Cristian Romero (Argentina), Richarlison (Brazil), Ivan Perisic (Croatia), Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (Denmark), Harry Kane, Eric Dier (England), Hugo Lloris (France), Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal), Son Heung-min (South Korea), Rodrigo Bentancur (Uruguay), Ben Davies (Wales)
      West Ham: Lucas Paqueta (Brazil), Declan Rice (England), Alphonse Areola (France), Thilo Kehrer (Germany), Nayef Aguerd (Morocco)
      Wolves: Raul Jimenez (Mexico), Ruben Neves, Matheus Nunes, Jose Sa (Portugal), Hwang Hee-chan (South Korea)

      Liverpool have seven call ups including England stars Jordan Henderson and Trent Alexander-Arnold – while Darwin Nunez will be an intriguing proposition for Uruguay.
      Leicester also have seven – headlined by England’s James Maddison but also including Wales’ Danny Ward and Belgium trio Youri Tielemans, Wout Faes and Timothy Castagne.
      Fulham will be represented by six players in Qatar: Welsh duo Dan James and Harry Wilson, USA double act Tim Ream and Antonee Robinson – as well as Portugal’s Joao Palhinha and Serbia’s Aleksandar Mitrovic.
      Brentford also have six call-ups, with half of them playing for Denmark in the shape of fit again Christian Norgaard, Mikkel Damsgaard and Mathias Jensen.
      Saman Ghoddos will play for Iran, Bryan Mbeumo for Cameroon and David Raya for Spain.
      Nottingham Forest possess Wales trio Wayne Hennessey, Brennan Johnson and Neco Williams – as well as Swiss ace Remo Freuler, Senegal’s Cheikhou Kouyate and teenager Brandon Aguilera of Costa Rica.
      Newcastle have England trio Nick Pope, Kieran Tripper and Callum Wilson, as well as Brazil’s Bruno Guimaraes and Switzerland’s Fabian Schar.
      While West Ham have Declan Rice representing England, Alphonse Areola in the France squad, Lucas Paqueta with Brazil, Nayef Aguerd of Morocco and Thilo Kehrer of Germany.

      Wolves unsurprisingly have a contingent in the Portugal squad – with Jose Sa, Joao Moutinho and Ruben Neves being called up – while Hwang Hee-chan will play for South Korea and Raul Jimenez has been deemed fit enough to play for Mexico.
      Half of Aston Villa’s four call-ups are in the Poland squad in the shape of Matty Cash and Jan Bednarek, while Leander Dendoncker is with Belgium and Emi Martinez with Argentina.
      Everton have England duo Jordan Pickford and Conor Coady, along with Belgium’s Amadou Onana and Senegal’s Idrissa Gueye.
      While Leeds have USA double act Tyler Adams and Brenden Aaronson – along with Denmark’s Rasmus Kristensen.
      Welsh pair Chris Mepham and Kieffer Moore are Bournemouth’s only World Cup-bound players – while Crystal Palace will be represented by Denmark’s Joachim Andersen and Ghana’s Jordan Ayew.
      Rounding off the Prem list is Southampton, who have Germany starlet Armel Bella-Kotchap and Ghana’s Mohammed Salisu.
      After the Premier League, the next most represented league system is that of Spain, with 85 players selected for the World Cup, followed by Germany on 81, Italy with 73 and France boasting 59.
      In total, 43 national leagues have an interest in the tournament.
      Iran, who only selected 25 players, chose their squad from a tournament-high of clubs in 14 countries, while both Saudi Arabia and hosts Qatar have chosen entirely from their home league.
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      Jude Bellingham is the only non-Premier League player in England’s squad.
      By contrast, the Three Lions’ potential last 16 opponents Senegal have players in England, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Cyprus and Turkey – but none in the African country itself. More

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      Iran’s greatest player refuses to attend England World Cup clash as boss Carlos insists players DO have right to protest

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      IRANIAN legend Ali Daei will boycott the World Cup – as coach Carlos Queiroz insisted his players DO have the right to protest.But former Manchester United No 2 Queiroz did lose his temper when asked about Iran’s treatment of women.
      Iran legend Ali Daei is boycotting the World Cup in solidarity with anti-government protestorsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Carlos Queiroz insists Iran’s players can protest the World Cup if they wantCredit: Reuters
      Iran, England’s opening World Cup opponents in the Khalifa International Stadium next Monday at 1pm UK time, arrived in Doha 24 hours before Gareth Southgate’s men.
      They walked into a desert storm, though, as ex-striker Daei, 53, who scored 109 international goals for “Team Melli”, revealed he had rejected a Fifa invitation to come to the tournament as a show of his support for anti-government protestors.
      In an Instagram post, accompanied by a picture of a woman discarding her headscarf, Daei said: “I rejected the official invitation of FIFA and Qatar Football Federation to attend the World Cup with my wife and daughters.
      “I prefer to be next to you in my homeland and express my sympathy with all the families who lost loved ones over these days.”
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      Daei’s statement upped the pressure on Queiroz, who was with his team when they were given an official farewell by state President Ebrahim Raisi on Monday.
      Asked about his players’ right to protest, the Portuguese told a news conference in the Qatari capital: “The players are free to protest as they would if they were from any other country as long as it conforms with the World Cup regulations and is in the spirit of the game.
      “But you can also express yourself on the field in the game of football and the players have only one thing on their mind and that is to fight to qualify for the second round.”
      Queiroz, though, appeared shaken when further quizzed over whether he was “proud” to coach a country which represses women.
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      He responded by demanding of his inquisitor: “How much will you pay me to answer that question?”
      Iran will play a final behind closed doors warm-up game with Tunisia tomorrow but Queiroz insisted his sole focus was a historic first knock-out stage qualification.
      He added: “My players don’t only want to be part of history – they also want to make history.
      “If we bring joy and pleasure to the people then we have done our job as footballers and that’s the most important issue for me as national team coach.”  More