World Cup 2022

Subterms

    More stories

    • 275 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Troy Deeney: England have World Cup 2022 squad capable of going all the way… but Southgate’s lack of Plan B a concern

      by

      GARETH SOUTHGATE has picked a squad capable of going all the way at the World Cup this winter.But my main concern is what to do if Plan A isn’t working?
      Southgate’s squad is capable of winning the tournamentCredit: EPA
      All but James (standing far left) will be going to Qatar to play for EnglandCredit: Reuters
      SunSport’s Deeney has picked the team he thinks Southgate will select to face Iran
      Southgate’s system has taken England to a level we’ve not seen for a long time at the last two tournaments.
      But what if that comes unstuck late on in a game?
      In England squads of old there would always be a Peter Crouch figure — or even Rickie Lambert —  who could come on and be the focal point for a late bombardment.
      We’ve got some incredible crossers of the ball in Kieran Trippier and Trent Alexander-Arnold, but there isn’t really anyone for them to hit when England need to mix things up.
      READ MORE ON WORLD CUP
      I for one certainly don’t want to see Harry Kane battling for headers, he needs to be the one having the ball knocked down to him so he can finish.
      I fear they’ll just keep playing passes slowly forward and get the midfielders and wing-backs into attacking positions, even if it’s not quite working.
      James Maddison
      There was always going to be a lot of noise around James, whether he was in Southgate’s squad or not.
      It might have been three years since his one and only cap for England, but he HAD to be part of this group.
      Most read in Football
      PLAY OUR DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP FANTASY FOOTBALL GAME TO WIN A SHARE OF £50k
      England’s 26-man squad for the World Cup
      I can’t see him starting many games, if any, but he could be the maverick that England need when things get tough.
      He’s got bags of self-belief — and he and Jack Grealish are two players who you just need to give the ball to and let them do what they do.
      Some teams will back off and ask England to try and break them down.
      That is where he will make a difference and get into those little pockets of space as he does for Leicester.
      He is the sort to try a difficult pass or a 30-yard shot, he might even bend a crucial free-kick into a top corner.
      He’s a wonderful option to have off the bench, a great asset if we’re chasing the game or struggling to break through.
      Maddison has been drafted in for the World Cup after his unstoppable formCredit: PA
      Ivan Toney
      I thought Southgate would only take two out-and-out strikers.
      If things go to plan then only one of them, Kane, is really going to be playing, but I would still have liked to see Toney get in there.
      He offers some thing different, he could have been that physical presence needed for a different approach.
      Ivan isn’t a physical presence in the old sense — he’s not a big lump like me — he can still run, still play and do all required from a modern-day No 9.
      But he’s also got the know-how from playing in the lower leagues and could rough people up a bit.
      He’s also arguably the best penalty taker in the Prem. I thought we may have learned our lesson a bit from the Euros last year.
      If we’re going to end up with penalties, instead of throwing Marcus Rashford on at right-back late on, why not Ivan?
      He is used to taking high-pressure penalties. I wanted him there for a shootout.
      Toney has missed out with Kane being the only out-and-out striker in the squadCredit: Getty
      Conor Coady
      One person I am pleased to see going to Qatar is Coady.
      Just like at the last Euros, he might not even get on the pitch at all in the Middle East, but he is such a good character to have around the squad.
      Similar to Jordan Henderson, he is a fantastic leader.
      I dealt with both of them a lot during the captains’ meetings during the pandemic. Whenever you’re around Conor he is a calming influence.
      Everton loan defender Conor and Jordan know what is required of the fringe players.
      There’s the first 11 and ultimately you need 10 or 11 cheerleaders, to push them daily and make sure they’re at the peak of their powers.
      On-loan Everton ace Coady is on the plane, being picked over Fikayo Tomori and Marc GuehiCredit: Getty
      Midfield is key
      Most of the starting XI is decided. I would say eight or nine starters, barring injury, are nailed on.
      I’d build my team around Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham. Those two could be the midfield pairing for ten years.
      Read More on The Sun
      The back five is straightforward, Trippier and Luke Shaw are my wing-backs  with Kyle Walker (who was England’s best player at Euro 2020 last summer), John Stones and Harry Maguire making the three.
      Either side of Kane is where you can move things around, with great options in Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Raheem Sterling or Mason Mount.
      Rice and Bellingham could be England’s midfield for the next decadeCredit: Kevin Quigley-The Daily Mail More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      James Maddison celebrates ‘dream’ World Cup 2022 squad call-up with amazing throwback pic in full England face paint

      by

      JAMES MADDISON has celebrated his call-up to Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad by posting a throwback picture in full Three Lions face paint.The Leicester midfielder, 25, forced his way back into the England set-up nearly three years on from his one and only senior cap, which came in the 7-0 win over Montenegro in 2019.
      Maddison has shared a throwback photo of his younger self wearing Three Lions face paintCredit: Twitter / Madders10
      Maddison only has one England cap to his name coming back in 2019Credit: PA
      England boss Southgate selected Maddison after an undeniably brilliant 2022 which saw him play a role in 27 goalsCredit: AFP
      27 goal contributions in 2022, with ten of those coming in the 22-23 season, forced Southgate’s hand.
      Maddison was selected for the 26-man World Cup squad ahead of attackers such as Jarrod Bowen, Ivan Toney, Jadon Sancho and Tammy Abraham.
      And to celebrate the good news, Foxes ace Maddison has shared a throwback picture of his younger self donning Three Lions face paint.
      Maddison tweeted: “It hasn’t sunk in… I’m going to The World Cup. Dreams really do come true.”
      READ MORE ON WORLD CUP
      Fans were thrilled to see Maddison’s inclusion.
      Fans were sharpening their knives in the days before the announcement just in case Southgate snubbed the midfielder.
      One responded to Maddison’s post saying: “Much love James, absolutely deserved.”
      Another said: “Deserved more than any other player on that teamsheet.”
      Most read in Football
      PLAY OUR DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP FANTASY FOOTBALL GAME TO WIN A SHARE OF £50k
      Maddison is England’s best playmaker heading to Qatar
      A third tweeted: “Bro, this is what football is all about. You deserve this moment and more.
      “I will be cheering you on because you are my man! MADDERS!!!”
      Three Lions boss Southgate admitted Maddison was in his thinking weeks before Thursday’s squad announcement.
      Southgate said: “A lot of people were suggesting he wouldn’t be with us but we decided a couple of weeks ago that he would, but we wouldn’t tell him that then.
      “He is playing really well and he is a good player, we have always said that.
      “He has earned the right and we think he can give us something slightly different than others we have.
      “At various stages there have been considerations and debates about James.
      “Ahead of the Euros I don’t think he was in contention and then probably a fair debate about including him in September.
      “But he is playing well as any attacking player in the country.
      “He has always been up against good players, he is playing exceptionally well.
      “Not enough players play forward these days. He can score goals from distance.”
      Southgate was asked how the Leicester star reacted to the call and he said: “He was delighted.
      “I had some very difficult calls emotionally at the other end of the spectrum, so it was nice to give myself a bit of an enjoyable end to that.”

      Southgate’s recollection of Maddison’s reaction has been echoed by Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers.
      Rodgers sent his player into his office to take in the news and shortly after Maddison returned to the pitch beaming.
      The Foxes boss said: “He had a missed call from Gareth just before training.
      “I said to him to pop into my office and make the call. He spoke to him and then came out full of joy of the world. It was a great moment.”
      Rodgers added: “It’s wonderful news for James and his family. I’m delighted for Gareth to have that talent available.
      Read More on The Sun
      “His level and consistency and his work ethic, and what he has proven over this last year, he’s shown he’s one of the best players in the Premier League.
      “Credit to him and his team-mates, he wouldn’t be able to get there without them.”
      England’s 26-man squad for the World Cup More

    • 200 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      World Cup 2022 squads: England squad CONFIRMED while Portugal, France, Brazil, Germany and Wales also announced

      by

      SOME of football’s most talented superstars are set to go up against each other THIS MONTH at the Qatar World Cup – but that’s if they are selected.Winter’s blockbuster event is edging closer with the opener scheduled to get underway on Sunday, November 20.
      Japan were the first side to announce their World Cup squadCredit: Getty
      But all eyes will be on the managers beforehand as they rack their brains to select their squads for the huge tournament in Qatar.
      Japanese head coach Hajime Moriyasu wasted no time by becoming the first manager to name his full team.
      And Gareth Southgate can finally focus on England’s opening match against Iran now that he has officially named his squad for Qatar.
      Find out more info on the World Cup squads below…
      When is the deadline for the World Cup squads?
      Managers had until Friday, October 21 to submit their 55-player release list to FIFA.
      Read more on World Cup
      However, FIFA have given managers up until Monday, November 14 to decide on their final 26-player squad.
      And once confirmed, each final listing will be made public before the World Cup begins.
      Given the possibility of Covid-19 or injuries, each team is able to replace affected players up to 24 hours before their first encounter but they have to be selected from the initial 55-man list.
      What are the confirmed World Cup squads?
      Australia
      Experienced central defender Trent Sainsbury was a surprise omission while wonderkid Garang Kuol and former Scotland international Jason Cummings have been called up.
      Australia have a tough opener scheduled against World champions FranceCredit: Reuters
      Goalkeepers: Mat Ryan, Danny Vukovic, Andrew Redmayne
      Defenders: Harry Souttar, Milos Degenek, Bailey Wright, Thomas Deng, Fran Karacic, Nathaniel Atkinson, Aziz Behich, Kye Rowles, Joel King
      Midfielders: Aaron Mooy, Jackson Irvine, Ajdin Hrustic, Cameron Devlin, Riley McGree, Keanu Baccus
      Forwards: Jamie Maclaren, Mitchell Duke, Jason Cummings, Garang Kuol, Awer Mabil, Mathew Leckie, Craig Goodwin, Martin Boyle
      Belgium
      Romelu Lukaku, Kevin de Bruyne and Leandro Trossard make it on the plane to Qatar for the Red Devils.
      Former Chelsea attacker Eden Hazard takes up his spot too but no place ex-Liverpool star Divock Origi.
      Belgium start their World Cup campaign against Canada in Group FCredit: Reuters
      Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Simon Mignolet, Koen Casteels
      Defenders: Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld, Leander Dendoncker, Zeno Debast, Arthur Theate, Wout Faes
      Midfielders: Hans Vanaken, Axel Witsel, Youri Tielemans, Amadou Onana, Kevin De Bruyne, Yannick Carrasco, Thorgan Hazard, Timothy Castagne, Thomas Meunier
      Forwards: Romelu Lukaku, Michy Batshuayi, Loïs Openda, Charles De Ketelaere, Eden Hazard, Jeremy Doku, Dries Mertens, Leandro Trossard
      Brazil
      Arsenal’s attacking duo Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli were both selected for the Brazilian squad.
      However, their defensive teammate Gabriel Magalhaes has been left out and so has Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino.
      Brazil come up against Serbia in their World Cup openerCredit: AFP
      Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson, Weverton
      Defenders: Bremer, Eder Militao, Marquinhos, Thiago Silva, Alex Sandro, Alex Telles, Danilo, Dani Alves
      Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Everton Ribeiro, Fabinho, Fred, Lucas Paqueta
      Forwards: Antony, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Neymar, Raphinha, Richarlison, Pedro, Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr
      Cameroon
      Experienced captain Vincent Aboubakar will feature in yet another World Cup for the African giants.
      And he’ll be supported up top by Bayern Munich’s Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
      Cameroon open their World Cup account against PanamaCredit: Reuters
      Goalkeepers: Devis Epassy, Simon Ngapandouetnbu, Andre Onana
      Defenders: Jean-Charles Castelletto, Enzo Ebosse, Collins Fai, Olivier Mbaizo, Nicolas Nkoulou, Tolo Nouhou, Christopher Wooh
      Midfielders: Martin Hongla, Pierre Kunde, Olivier Ntcham, Gael Ondoua, Samuel Oum Gouet, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa
      Forwards: Vincent Aboubakar, Christian Bassogog, Eric-Maxime Choupo Moting, Souaibou Marou, Bryan Mbeumo, Nicolas Moumi Ngamaleu, Jerome Ngom, Georges-Kevin Nkoudou, Jean-Pierre Nsame, Karl Toko Ekambi
      Costa Rica
      Paris Saint-Germain veteran Keylor Navas makes the cut and so has former Arsenal forward Joel Campbell.
      Costa Rica are scheduled to face Spain in their first World Cup match this monthCredit: AFP
      Goalkeepers: Keylor Navas, Esteban Alvarado, Patrick Sequeira
      Defenders: Francisco Calvo, Juan Pablo Vargas, Kendall Waston, Oscar Duarte, Daniel Chacon, Keysher Fuller, Carlos Martinez, Bryan Oviedo, Ronald Matarrita
      Midfielders: Yeltsin Tejeda, Celso Borges, Youstin Salas, Roan Wilson, Gerson Torres, Douglas Lopez, Jewisson Bennette, Alvaro Zamora, Anthony Hernandez, Brandon Aguilera, Bryan Ruiz
      Forwards: Joel Campbell, Anthony Contreras, Johan Venegas
      Croatia
      Midfield veteran Luka Modric, Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovcic and Tottenham winger Ivan Perisic will all be on the plane to Qatar.
      But Rangers’ Antonio Mirko Olak was cut from the preliminary squad.
      Croatia got the semi-final in the 2018 World CupCredit: EPA
      Goalkeepers: Dominik Livakovic, Ivica Ivusic, Ivo Grbic
      Defenders: Domagoj Vida, Dejan Lovren, Borna Barisic, Josip Juranovic, Josko Gvardiol, Borna Sosa, Josip Stanisic, Martin Erlic, Josip Sutalo
      Midfielders: Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, Marcelo Brozovic, Mario Pasalic, Nikola Vlasic, Lovro Majer, Kristijan Jakic, Luka Sucic
      Forwards: Ivan Perisic, Andrej Kramaric, Bruno Petkovic, Mislav Orsic, Ante Budimir, Marko Livaja
      Denmark
      Christian Eriksen has been named in Denmark’s squad 17 months after he suffered a cardiac arrest at Euro 2020.
      Denmark kick off their World Cup campaign against TunisiaCredit: Reuters
      Goalkeepers: Kasper Schmeichel, Oliver Christensen
      Defenders: Simon Kjaer, Joachim Andersen, Joakim Maehle, Andreas Christensen, Rasmus Kristensen, Jens Stryger Larsen, Victor Nelsson, Daniel Wass
      Midfielders: Thomas Delaney, Mathias Jensen, Christian Eriksen, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg
      Forwards: Andreas Skov Olsen, Jesper Lindstrom, Andreas Cornelius, Martin Braithwaite, Kasper Dolberg, Mikkel Damsgaard, Jonas Wind
      England
      Kyle Walker and Kalvin Philips have both battled through their injuries to make it on the plane to Qatar.
      Arsenal duo Ben White and Bukayo Saka get the call up following their sensational starts to the season.
      But the two major talking points is James Maddison who gets hasn’t made an England appearance since 2019.
      And Callum Wilson, who was picked over the likes of Jadon Sancho and Ivan Toney.
      England start their World Cup journey against Iran on November 21Credit: Getty
      Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Nick Pope, Aaron Ramsdale
      Defenders: Luke Shaw, John Stones, Eric Dier, Harry Maguire, Ben White, Conor Coady, Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, Trent Alexander-Arnold
      Midfielders: Mason Mount, James Maddison, Conor Gallagher, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Kalvin Phillips
      Forwards: Harry Kane, Callum Wilson, Raheem Sterling, Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka
      France
      Manager Didier Deschamps has found room for Raphael Varane in his squad, despite the Manchester United star’s injury.
      France are the current World Cup holdersCredit: AFP
      Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola, Hugo Lloris, Steve Mandanda
      Defenders: Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, Ibrahima Konate, Jules Koundé, Benjamin Pavard, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Raphael Varane
      Midfielders: Youssouf Fofana, Eduardo Camavinga, Matteo Guendouzi, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Jordan Veretout
      Forwards: Karim Benzema, Kingsley Coman, Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud, Kylian Mbappe, Christopher Nkunku
      Germany
      There’s no place for injured Marco Reus but Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan and Chelsea’s Kai Havertz make the cut.
      However, the big surprise is that Moukoko, 17, will be on the plane to Qatar.
      Germany will take on Japan in their World Cup openerCredit: Reuters
      Goalkeepers:Manuel Neuer, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Kevin Trapp
      Defenders: Armel Bella Kotchap, Mathias Gintar, Christian Gunter, Thilo Kehrer, Lukas Klostermann, David Raum, Antonio Rudiger, Nico Schlotterbeck, Niklas Sule
      Midfielders: Julian Brandt, Niclas Fullkrug, Leon Goretzka, Mario Gotze, Ilkay Gundogan, Jonas Hofmann, Joshua Kimmich
      Forwards: Karim Adeyemi, Serge Gnabry, Kai Havertz, Youssoufa Moukoko, Thomas Muller, Jamal Musiala, Leroy Sane
      Japan
      Arsenal ace Takehiro Tomiyasu has been selected while Celtic stars Kyogo Furuhashi and Reo Hatate failed to make the cut.
      Japan will take on Germany in their opening World Cup matchCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Goalkeepers: Eiji Kawashima, Shuichi Gonda, Daniel Schmidt
      Defenders: Yuto Nagatomo, Maya Yoshida, Hiroki Sakai, Shogo Taniguchi, Miki Yamane, Ko Itakura, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Hiroki Ito
      Midfielders: Gaku Shibasaki, Wataru Endo, Junya Ito, Takumi Minamino, Hidemasa Morita, Daichi Kamada, Yuki Soma, Kaoru Mitoma, Ritsu Doan, Ao Tanaka, Takefusa Kubo
      Forwards: Takuma Asano, Daizen Maeda, Ayase Ueda, Shuto Machino
      Morocco
      Achraf Hakimi has got the call up and Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech makes his return to the fold.
      Morocco face Croatia in their first World Cup matchCredit: Reuters
      Goalkeepers: Yassine Bono, Munir, Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti
      Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Romain Saiss, Achraf Dari, Jawad El-Yamiq, Yahia Attiat-Allal, Badr Benoun
      Midfielders: Sofyan Amrabat, Selim Amallah, Abdelhamid Sabiri, Azzedine Ounahi, Bilel El Khanouss, Yahya Jabrane
      Forwards: Hakim Ziyech, Youssef En-Nesyri, Sofiane Boufal, Zakaria Aboukhlal, Ez Abde, Amine Harit, Ilias Chair, Abderrazak Hamdallah, Walid Cheddira
      Portugal
      Both Manchester United stars Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo have been picked for Portugal.
      epa10298495 Portugal national soccer team head coach Fernando Santos thumbs up as he attends a press conference to announce his final squad for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 in Oeiras, Portugal, 10 November 2022. EPA/ANTONIO COTRIMCredit: EPA
      Goalkeepers: Jose Sa, Rui Patricio, Diogo Costa.
      Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Diogo Dalot, Pepe, Ruben Dias, Danilo Pereira, Antonio Silva, Nuno Mendes, Raphael Guerreiro.
      Midfielders: William, Ruben Neves, Joao Palhinha, Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, Otavio, Matheus Nunes, Bernardo Silva, Joao Mario.
      Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix, Rafael Leao, Ricardo Horta, Andre Silva, Goncalo Ramos.
      Senegal
      Chelsea duo Eduoard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly have both made the cut for Senegal.
      But the AFCON champions are reportedly set to be without talisman Sadio Mane who sustained a tendon injury against Werder Bremen.
      However, Mane is still named in the squad with the Senegal boss prepared to take a gamble.
      Senegal will be looking for more international glory after winning AFCON in FebruaryCredit: AP
      Goalkeepers: Edouard Mendy, Alfred Gomis, Seny Diang
      Defenders: Bouna Sarr, Saliou Ciss, Kalidou Koulibaly, Pape Abou Cisse, Abdou Diallo, Ibrahima Mbaye, Abdoulaye Seck, Fode Ballo Toure, Cheikhou Kouyate
      Midfielders: Pape Matar Sarr, Pape Gueye, Nampalys Mendy, Idrissa Gana Gueye, Moustapha Name, M. Loum Ndiaye, Joseph Lopy
      Forwards: Sadio Mane, Ismaila Sarr, Bamba Dieng, Keita Balde, Habib Diallo, Boulaye Dia, Famara Diedhiou, Mame Babe Thiam
      Switzerland
      Granit Xhaka will captain the Swiss team as they go for glory in Qatar and he’ll be joined by former Liverpool attacker Xherdan Shaqiri.
      Switzerland open their World Cup campaign with a fixture against CameroonCredit: EPA
      Goalkeepers: Gregor Kobel, Philipp Kohn, Jonas Omlin, Yann Sommer
      Defenders: Manuel Akanji, Eray Comert, Nico Elvedi, Ricardo Rodriguez, Fabian Schar, Silvan Widmer
      Midfielders: Granit Xhaka, Edimilson Fernandes, Fabian Frei, Remo Freuler, Ardon Jashari, Fabian Rieder, Xherdan Shaqiri, Djibril Sow, Renato Steffen, Denis Zakaria, Michel Aebischer
      Forwards: Breel Embolo, Christian Fassnacht, Noah Okafor, Haris Seferovic, Ruben Vargas
      United States
      Arsenal’s second choice goal keeper Matt Turner has been included in the squad despite some recent injury issues.
      He’ll be joined by Leeds duo Brenden Aaaronson and Tyler Adams as well as Chelsea forward Christian Pulisic.
      United States open their World Cup account against WalesCredit: AFP
      Goalkeepers: Ethan Horvath, Sean Johnson, Matt Turner
      Defenders: Cameron Carter-Vickers, Sergino Dest, Aaron Long, Shaq Moore, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson, Joe Scally, DeAndre Yedlin, Walker Zimmerman
      Midfielders: Brenden Aaronson, Kellyn Acosta, Tyler Adams, Luca de la Torre, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Cristian Roldan
      Forwards: Jesus Ferreira, Jordan Morris, Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna, Josh Sargent, Tim Weah, Haji Wright.
      Wales
      Wales players huddle together on the pitch ahead of Euro 2020 gameCredit: PA
      Goalkeepers: Wayne Hennessey, Danny Ward, Adam Davies.
      Defenders: Ben Davies, Ben Cabango, Tom Lockyer, Joe Rodon, Chris Mepham, Ethan Ampadu, Chris Gunter, Neco Williams, Connor Roberts.
      Midfielders: Sorba Thomas, Joe Allen, Matthew Smith, Dylan Levitt, Harry Wilson, Joe Morrell, Jonny Williams, Aaron Ramsey, Rubin Colwill.
      Forwards: Gareth Bale, Kieffer Moore, Mark Harris, Brennan Johnson, Dan James. More

    • 213 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      England’s World Cup 2022 squad the second-most experienced EVER with Southgate’s 26-man group boasting massive 820 caps

      by

      ENGLAND’S World Cup squad for Qatar boasts the second-most experienced squad the country has taken to a tournament.Gareth Southgate named his squad of 26 players who have earned a combined total of 820 caps, one shy of the record of 821.
      England’s team for the World Cup in Qatar has the second-highest amount of caps in the country’s history.Credit: Alamy
      The previous record was set in 2010, when former Three Lions boss Fabio Capello took his squad comprising of experienced players such as Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard to South Africa.
      Other highly capped players in that squad included Ashley Cole, David James, John Terry, Jermaine Defoe, and Joe Cole.
      However, the amount of caps between the players didn’t count for much as the team crashed out of the tournament in the round of 16 after losing to Germany 4-1.
      Amongst Southgate’s squad are some players who are well-versed on the international stage.
      READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
      Stars such as Raheem Sterling (79), Harry Kane (75), Kyle Walker (70), and Jordan Henderson (70) are the most capped players in the squad.
      Despite some newcomers to the squad such as James Maddison (1), Aaron Ramsdale (3), Callum Wilson (4), and Ben White (4) not bringing a lot of play time for England with them.
      The squad as a whole has plenty of experience to help the team in their ambitions to win the World Cup.
      It also shows how much the team has developed since the 2020 Euros when the squad had a combined 641 caps and 449 caps in the 2018 World Cup.
      Most read in World Cup 2022
      PLAY OUR DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP FANTASY FOOTBALL GAME TO WIN A SHARE OF £50k
      In 2018, the less experienced squad made it to the semi-finals of the competitions before being knocked out by Croatia.
      However, there is one reason behind the high amount of caps. This tournament has squads of 26 men compared to that of 23 in the past.
      England start their World Cup campaign against Iran in eleven days’ time on November 21. More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Cristiano Ronaldo reacts to being named in Portugal World Cup 2022 squad that’s packed full of Premier League stars

      by

      PORTUGAL have become the latest country to confirm their World Cup squad and it’s packed with Premier League talent. Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo – set to feature in his fifth World Cup – was among the biggest names included with his team-mate Bruno Fernandes also in the squad of 26.
      38-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo is incredibly set to star in a fifth World CupCredit: Getty
      Ronaldo was quick to react to the news, posting an image of the squad on his social channels.
      He wrote in the accompanying caption: “Once again, ready to raise the name of Portugal very high! There are 26 names on Mister Fernando Santos’ list, but we’re all summoned! Go Portugal!”
      Ronaldo and Fernandes are just two stars from a talented squad that will be looking to reach the latter stages of the Qatar tournament.
      Also named in the squad by Portugal boss Fernando Santos is Fulham midfield ace Joao Palhinha, Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias and João Cancelo and the Wolves trio of Ruben Neves, Matheus Nunes and keeper Jose Sa.
      READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
      Diogo Dalot is the third Man United star part of the squad, while Red Devils fans may also be advised to keep an eye on Porto keeper Diogo Costa who is one of the 26 and has been linked with an Old Trafford move.
      The most high-profile stars from European clubs outside of the UK include AC Milan hotshot Rafael Leao and João Félix of Atletico Madrid.
      Unlike many other nations, Portugal have managed to organise a friendly before the World Cup kicks off.
      They will play Nigeria in a warm-up game in a week’s time before they begin their voyage in Group H.
      Most read in Football
      PLAY OUR DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP FANTASY FOOTBALL GAME TO WIN A SHARE OF £50k
      The tricky group includes Ghana, Uruguay and South Korea.
      Portugal World Cup squad in full
      Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (Porto), Rui Patricio (Roma), José Sa (Wolverhampton)
      Defenders: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), João Cancelo (Manchester City). Raphael Guerreiro (Dortmund), Antonio Silva (Benfica), Pepe (Porto), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Danilo Pereira (PSG), Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
      Midfielders: João Palhinha (Fulham), Ruben Neves (Wolverhampton), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), João Mario (Benfica), Matheus Nunes (Wolverhampton), Otavio (Porto). Vitinha (PSG), William Carvalho (Real Betis)
      Forwards: André Silva (RB Leipzig), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Goncalo Ramos (Benfica), João Félix (Atlético Madrid), Ricardo Horta (Braga), Rafael Leão (AC Milan) More

    • 250 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      England’s first World Cup 2022 opponents Iran scrape win at home to world No142 Nicaragua in poor start to preparations

      by

      ENGLAND’s opening World Cup group opponents Iran scraped a 1-0 win at home over world No142 Nicaragua.Iran, ranked 20th in the Fifa rankings, will be hoping to cause an upset later this month and qualify for the World Cup knockouts by edging out two of England, Wales and the USA.
      Iran scraped a narrow victory over a team outside Fifa’s top 100Credit: EPA
      England boss Southgate will be pleased to see Iran falteringCredit: AFP
      However, their preparations for the Qatar winter tournament haven’t gone to plan as they played out a tough 90 minutes against Nicaragua.
      Attacker Mehdi Torabi scored the only goal of the game to see off their No142-ranked visitors.
      And the next game Iran play will be against Tunisia on November 16 before facing Euro 2020 runners-up England on November 21 inside the Khalifa International Stadium.
      The result will be music to Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate’s ears.
      READ MORE ON WORLD CUP
      Southgate named his 26-man World Cup squad on Thursday with a wealth of attacking talent.
      England have struggled for goals since the summer’s Nations League fixtures.
      And so Southgate has called upon England’s most in-form playmaker James Maddison.
      The one-cap star will feed the likes of Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford in attack.
      Most read in Football
      PLAY OUR DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP FANTASY FOOTBALL GAME TO WIN A SHARE OF £50k
      He will also provide a good rotational option for mainstay Mason Mount.
      Southgate said on Maddison: “A lot of people were suggesting he wouldn’t be with us but we decided a couple of weeks ago that he would, but we wouldn’t tell him that then.
      “He is playing really well and he is a good player, we have always said that.
      “He has earned the right and we think he can give us something slightly different than others we have.
      “At various stages there have been considerations and debates about James.
      “Ahead of the Euros I don’t think he was in contention and then probably a fair debate about including him in September.
      “But he is playing well as any attacking player in the country.
      “He has always been up against good players, he is playing exceptionally well.
      “Not enough players play forward these days. He can score goals from distance.”
      Read More on The Sun
      Southgate was asked how the Leicester star reacted to the call and he said: “He was delighted.
      “I had some very difficult calls emotionally at the other end of the spectrum, so it was nice to give myself a bit of an enjoyable end to that.”
      England’s 26-man squad for the World Cup More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      England’s 26-man World Cup 2022 squad broken down, from goals and caps to previous tournament experience

      by

      GARETH SOUTHGATE announced his World Cup squad earlier today as England gear up for another huge tournament. Some stars were left out of the 26-men squad but others, like James Maddison and Conor Gallagher, were surprisingly included.
      Harry Kane will be England’s biggest attacking threat as the Spurs star chases more tournament goalsCredit: Getty
      Some fans were caught by surprise at Conor Gallagher’s inclusion in the 26-man squadCredit: Getty
      The boys will be led by captain Harry Kane in the opening game against Iran in just 11 days amid high expectations.
      While some in the squad are about to compete in their fifth major appearances, others have not played a single competitive game for England.
      SunSport has the lowdown on every single squad player from caps, goals and international experience.
      Goalkeepers
      Jordan Pickford
      Club: Everton Age: 28 Caps: 45 Previous tournament experience: Two tournaments (2018, 2020), 14 appearances
      Goodison gloveman has had his critics but travels as unquestioned No 1. Has shown a growing maturity and distribution is so useful for Southgate’s side.
      Aaron Ramsdale
      Club: ArsenalAge: 24 Caps: 3Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020), no appearances
      Emergency call-up in 2021 but in this squad by right and might have edged ahead of Nick Pope as Pickford’s understudy. No shortage of self-belief, either.
      READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
      Nick Pope
      NewcastleAge: 30 Caps: 10 Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2018), no appearances
      Part of that new-look Toon rearguard and perhaps the best English shot-stopper but not so clever on the deck and blotted his copybook in Germany game in September.
      Defence
      Trent Alexander-Arnold
      LiverpoolAge: 24 Caps: 17 Goals: 1 Previous tournament experience: Two tournaments (2018, 2020), one appearance
      Reece James’ misfortune is the Liverpool man’s opportunity but Southgate’s doubts over his defensive acumen are justified. That passing ability, though. 
      Kyle Walker
      Manchester CityAge: 32 Caps: 20 Previous tournament experience: Three tournaments (2016, 2018, 2020), 14 appearances
      Walker’s recovery from injury is still uncertain but Southgate values his ability to play at full-back or on the right of a three and has taken a gamble.
      Most read in Football
      PLAY OUR DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP FANTASY FOOTBALL GAME TO WIN A SHARE OF £50k
      Ben White
      ArsenalAge: 25 Caps: 4Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020), no appearances
      Unused in the summer of 2021 but outstanding at full-back in Gunners’ unexpected title push and gets his chance. Ability to play in a three could help, too.
      John Stones
      Manchester CityAge: 28 Caps: 59 Goals: 3 Previous tournament experience: Three tournaments (2016, 2018, 2020), 14 appearances, two goals
      Star has fallen and risen over the past few years but Southgate needs the Yorkshireman to be a tough as teak Tyke if England are to be contenders.
      Harry Maguire
      Manchester UnitedAge: 29 Caps: 48 Goals: 7 Previous tournament experience: Two tournaments (2018, 2020), 12 appearances, two goals
      Nobody could claim Maguire has enjoyed the past two years but he has never let Southgate down when the heat was on. That may still be enough for him to start against Iran
      Eric Dier
      TottenhamAge: 28 Caps: 47 Goals: 3 Previous tournament experience: Two tournaments (2016, 2018), 10 appearances, one goal
      Spurs man was in England wilderness for two years until September recall but his form has since dipped and must have been a touch and go selection.

      Conor Coady
      Everton (on loan from Wolves)
      Age: 29 Caps: 10 Goals: 1 Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020)Did not get off the bench in 2021 but a good tourist who has prospered since his return to Merseyside. Would love to get on the pitch for a single minute. 
      Luke Shaw
      Manchester UnitedAge: 27 Caps: 23 Goals 3Previous tournament experience: Two tournaments (2014, 2020), seven appearances, one goal
      Recent England displays, and Ben Chilwell’s absence, have secured the Old Trafford man’s likely starting slot on the left against Iran. 
      Kieran Trippier
      NewcastleAge: 32 Caps: 37  Goals: 1 Previous tournament experience:  Two tournaments (2018, 2020), 11 appearances, one goal
      Experience in Spain has made Trippier an even more rounded player and ability to play both sides made him an even bigger certainty to be selected. Nobody will forget that Croatia free-kick.
      Midfield
      Jordan Henderson
      LiverpoolAge: 32 Caps: 7 Goals: 2 Previous tournament experience: Five tournaments (2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020) 15 appearances, one goal
      Liverpool skipper remains a key member of Southgate’s squad even if he may not make the initial starting line-up. Character is hugely important.
      Already established as a star at club level, Jude Bellingham has a chance to cement his growing reputation further in QatarCredit: PA
      Jude Bellingham
      Borussia DortmundAge: 19 Caps: 17 Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020), three appearances
      Teenager is mature beyond his years and surely a mainstay for a decade or more. No wonder most of Europe’s elite clubs want him and this is his opportunity to shine.
      Declan Rice
      West Ham Age: 23 Caps: 34 Goals: 2 Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020), seven appearances
      Ever-present in 2021 and will be again if he stays fit. The perfect platform for the midfielder to show why he is one of England’s brightest jewels.
      Conor Gallagher
      ChelseaAge: 22 Caps:Previous tournament experience: None
      The wild-card selection must have been fearing he had blown his chances with his most recent cap in the Hungary home humbling in June but is Southgate’s hunch call.

      Mason Mount
      ChelseaAge: 23 Caps: 32 Goals: 5 Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020), five appearances
      Covid impacted on him in 2021 and gets some grief but Southgate is a big fan of his movement, energy, guile and goal threat.
      Kalvin Phillips
      Manchester City
      Age: 26 Caps: 23 
      Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020), seven appearances
      Other than Sterling, Phillips was the surprise star of Euro 2020 when he started every game and gave Southgate’s side some midfield muscle. Barely played since his summer move so this is a risk.
      Forwards
      Raheem Sterling was first named in an England World Cup squad in 2014 aged 19 and is set to star in his fifth major international tournamentCredit: PA
      Jack Grealish
      Manchester CityAge: 27 Caps: 24 Goals: 1 Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020), five appearances
      Significant impact off the bench in 2021 and still struggling to make himself a starter. Some feel he has sublimated his natural game to fit the Pep pattern. Does Southgate trust him?
      Phil Foden
      Manchester CityAge: 22 Caps: 18 Goals: 2 Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020)
      Injury curtailed his involvement 18 months ago yet nobody would quibble if he starts against Iran. Still little more than a pup but with real bite and bark.
      Bukayo Saka
      ArsenalAge: 21 Caps: 20 Goals: 4 Previous tournament experience: One tournament (2020), four appearances
      Has recovered from the scars of that missed Final penalty against Italy and an integral part of the Arsenal renaissance. Can play anywhere from left-back to right wing.
      Raheem Sterling
      ChelseaAge: 27 Caps: 79 Goals: 19 Previous tournament experience: Four tournaments (2014, 2016, 2018, 2020), 18 appearances, three goals
      Wideman has struggled at Chelsea this term but Southgate will not forget how he blossomed at Euro 2020. Will be under pressure for a starting slot.
      James Maddison
      LeicesterAge: 26 Caps: 1 Previous tournament experience: None
      Brilliant Leicester form for two years did not seem to have been noticed by Southgate until recently but he has the playmaking and dead ball ability to make an impact.
      Callum Wilson
      NewcastleAge: 30 Caps: 4 Goals: 1 Previous tournament experience: None
      Toon hitman got a last minute invitation to the party and earned his place as Kane’s understudy with his form for the Geordies. Better late than never.
      Read More on The Sun
      Marcus Rashford
      Manchester UnitedAge: 25 Caps: 46 Goals: 12 Previous tournament experience: Three tournaments (2016, 2018, 2020) 13 appearances
      Boy wonder of 2016 has become a social campaigner as well as a player. Pace is his key attribute. Still looking for the elusive first tournament goal.
      Harry Kane
      TottenhamAge: 29 Caps: 75 Goals: 51 Previous tournament experience: Three tournaments (2016, 2018, 2020), 17 appearances, 10 goals
      Can break two more England records – leading scorer and highest tournament marksman – over the next few weeks. Skipper is the first and most vital name on Southgate’s teamsheet. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech ‘honoured’ to be called up by Morocco for World Cup 2022 after shock retirement U-turn

      by

      CHELSEA star Hakim Ziyech is “honoured” to have been called up by Morocco for the 2022 World Cup after performing a shock U-turn on international retirement.The winger, 29, vowed to never play for his country again after a falling out with old boss Vahid Halilhodzic.
      Hakim Ziyech performed an international retirement U-turn after Vahid Halilhodzic left his postCredit: AFP
      He missed out at the Africa Cup of Nations and before September’s fixtures against Chile and Paraguay, he hadn’t featured for Morocco since June 2021.
      Halilhodzic is now old news and Walid Regragui is in charge.
      And Regragui will lead Morocco into Qatar with Ziyech firmly in his plans.
      Morocco will contest World Cup Group F alongside Croatia, Belgium and Canada.
      READ MORE ON WORLD CUP
      And Ziyech has taken to Instagram to say he is “honoured” to play for his country at the winter tournament.
      Morocco will need main man Ziyech firing if they’re to beat two of their group mates to a knockout spot.
      However, the Chelsea ace isn’t having the best of seasons.
      Ziyech has played just eight times across all competitions this season.
      Most read in Football
      PLAY OUR DREAM TEAM WORLD CUP FANTASY FOOTBALL GAME TO WIN A SHARE OF £50k
      He has no goals or assists to his name and appears to be out of boss Graham Potter’s plans.
      Out of those eight appearances, Ziyech has started just twice, coming in the EFL Cup loss to Manchester City and Chelsea’s league defeat to Southampton.
      West Ham summer signing Nayef Aguerd will also feature for Morocco with the defender shaking off a lengthy injury sustained in pre-season against Rangers. More