World Cup 2022

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      Brazil star Philippe Coutinho in World Cup heartache after suffering injury just weeks before Qatar 2022

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      PHILIPPE COUTINHO has been ruled out until after the World Cup, Aston Villa boss Unai Emery has confirmed.The 30-year-old playmaker was not in the matchday squad for today’s 3-1 win over Manchester United.
      Philippe Coutinho has been ruled out injured until after the World CupCredit: Alamy
      The Athletic report Coutinho picked up a quad injury in training.
      A dire start to the season meant Coutinho was already an outsider to be on Brazil’s plane to Qatar.
      He was left out of Brazil boss Tite’s most recent international squad, and last played for his country in June.
      Now slim chances of going to the World Cup have now been wiped out altogether.
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      New Villa boss Emery revealed after the game that Coutinho will not play again until after the tournament.
      He said: “Coutinho is injured.
      “I don’t know how long it will be but, today, he couldn’t play and he’s not going to play until after the break. It’s a muscular injury.”
      The Brazilian joins a growing list of stars who are crocked for Qatar.
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      International team-mate Arthur Melo is out of the tournament after picking up a long-term muscular injury.
      Elsewhere an ankle injury means Timo Werner will not be able to represent Germany in Qatar.
      Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell has confirmed he will miss the World Cup too after injuring his hamstring in midweek against Dinamo Zagreb.
      But, in good news for England, Reece James is ahead of schedule in his recovery from knee ligament damage.
      The Blues defender is hopeful of representing the Three Lions in Qatar. More

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      Ivan Toney available for World Cup selection despite England star being under FA investigation over betting probe

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      IVAN Toney remains available for World Cup selection – despite being under FA investigation over a betting probe.Uncapped Brentford striker Toney is hoping to gatecrash Gareth Southgate’s Qatar 26 when it is unveiled on Thursday.
      Ivan Toney will be available for England World Cup selectionCredit: Getty
      Toney broke into the team during the last international break but failed to make his debutCredit: Getty
      But The Sun on Sunday revealed Toney, 26, is the subject of a seven-month probe over allegations of gambling during his lower league spells.
      Toney played for Northampton, Peterborough and on loan at four other EFL clubs before joining the Bees in 2020.
      FA rules ban any active participants from gambling on any football-related issues, with Kieran Trippier receiving a 10-week ban in December 2020 for passing on information ahead of his move from Spurs to Atletico Madrid.
      But while Toney may face charges if FA investigators believe he has broken the regulations he is currently innocent of any misconduct and will be available if Southgate wishes to select him for the tournament.
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      Toney has been in terrific form for Brentford so far this season.
      He has scored eight goals in just 13 Premier League games.
      His strikes include a hat trick against Leeds and a brace against Brighton, while forward exploits also came to the fore against Manchester United.
      Toney ran the United defence ragged throughout the 4-0 drubbing, chipping in with two assists in the early season thrashing.
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      It is very likely the 26-year-old was named in Southgate’s 55-man provisional England squad.
      But he will face competition from a number of his in-form compatriots, including Callum Wilson and Danny Welbeck. More

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      England fans concerned as Callum Wilson is subbed at half-time of Newcastle vs Southampton just weeks before World Cup

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      ENGLAND fans have been left with their hearts in mouth yet again after Callum Wilson was substituted at half-time for Newcastle.The Three Lions World Cup hopeful came off at the break in the game at Southampton.
      Callum Wilson was taken off at half-time against SouthamptonCredit: Rex
      Wilson, 30, was replaced up front by Chris Wood.
      It’s currently unclear whether or not the substitution was due to an injury.
      The six-goal striker had recently been suffering from a cold.
      He said earlier in the week on The Footballer’s Football Podcast: “I feel a little run down this week, so I need to make sure no illness kicks in fully, clear that out.”
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      Toon gaffer Eddie Howe said on his striker ahead of the game: “Yeah, I think he’s OK. He’s had a little cold.
      “It’s funny how everything gets around, especially if you do a podcast! Finger crossed, he’ll be OK.”
      And England fans were left hoping Wilson was still just feeling the effects from the cold.
      One wrote on Twitter: “Really hope @CallumWilson just still under the weather.”
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      Another said: “Callum Wilson off. Pray that’s because he isn’t feeling well.”
      Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate was in the stands at St. Mary’s watching the game.
      Wilson, who has two assists to go with his six goals this season, missed five games earlier this term with a hamstring injury.
      The ex-Bournemouth forward is a strong candidate for a seat on the plane to Qatar, despite it being two years since his last England appearance.
      There was also brief concern for Kieran Trippier, who is expected to be in Southgate’s squad.
      He was treated by physios and had one hand on his hamstring just before the break, but thankfully for England and Newcastle, the right-back managed to play on.
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      The Three Lions are already without Ben Chilwell for the tournament, which gets underway in just two weeks.
      Reece James is also a major doubt as he battles to recover from a knee injury in time to play a part. More

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      World Cup 2022 – injured players to miss tournament: Chilwell, Pogba, Kante all OUT of Qatar competition, Messi a DOUBT

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      QATAR’s World Cup will see the most famous names in world football face off against each other over November and December.
      England will be hoping to bring home the trophy after reaching the semi-final stages in 2018 before suffering defeat to Croatia.
      France’s Paul Pogba will be sadly absent in QatarCredit: AFP
      The likes of Brazil, France, Spain and Germany will be standing in the way of Gareth Southgate’s men as the top-performing stars in football battle it out for international glory.
      However, there are set to be many noticeable absences as the tournament approaches.
      Here is a full list of absentees from Qatar, which SunSport will keep updated between now and November 20.
      Argentina
      AS Roma star Paulo Dybala could be set to miss the World Cup after suffering a freak injury against Lecce in October, with his boss Jose Mourinho, admitting: “The injury looks very bad. I’d say bad, but honestly after speaking with Paulo… I think very bad”.
      Things have gone from bad to worse for Argentina, with Lionel Messi now a doubt after suffering an achilles injury just weeks before the tournament.
      However, there is hope that he will return to action for PSG before the tournament and be fit for Qatar.
      Paulo Dybala will miss the World Cup with injury

      He could be joined on the sidelines by teammates Joaquin Correa, who is doubtful for the tournament due to a knee injury and veteran Angel Di Maria, who sustained a thigh problem.
      Australia
      The Socceroos will be likely be without Kye Rowles after he broke his foot, while Harry Southar was doubtful but is in line for a return for Stoke City before the tournament so could be called up.
      Belgium
      Alexis Saelemaekers is set to miss the tournament as the AC Milan star was ruled out for the remainder of 2022 after picking up a serious knee injury, seeing him out of action between six and eight weeks.
      Brazil
      Liverpool loanee Arthur Melo has been ruled out of the tournament also, suffering a long-term muscular injury after failing to nail down a starting spot during the beginning of his spell in England.
      Liverpool midfielder Arthur Melo, on loan from Juventus, will miss the World Cup
      Cameroon
      As it stands, Cameroon have a fully fit squad going into the World Cup as they look to impress at the tournament.
      Canada
      The Canadians are without any injury concerns.
      Alphonso Davies received a bump to the head against Plzen in the Champions League, but recovered and returned to action for Bayern Munich with no long-term injury.
      Alphonso Davies will be going to the World Cup with CanadaCredit: AP
      Costa Rica
      The Central Americans go into the tournament also with a fully fit squad.
      Croatia
      Marcelo Brozovic has faced a spell out with injury but if thought to be fit enough for selection despite his hamstring issues.
      Denmark
      Andreas Christensen has faced three weeks on the sidelines for Barcelona with an ankle injury but should be back in time to travel to Qatar.
      Ecuador
      Joao Rojas has been ruled out of the tournament with a knee injury, while teammates Gonzalo Plata and Robert Arbeloda are also doubtful.
      England
      Ben Chilwell will officially not be heading to Qatar due to sustaining a hamstring injury in Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Dinamo Zagreb.
      Kalvin Phillips and Emile Smith Rowe will be unavailable for selection after surgeries on shoulder and groin injuries respectively.
      Man City pair Kalvin Phillips and Kyle Walker are likely to be out of the England squad after requiring surgery
      Reece James is expected to miss the tournament also, with Chelsea ruling their defender out for eight weeks.
      However, after being sent to Dubai for rehabilitation, the defender has admitted that he is refusing to give up on his dream of making the World Cup squad.
      England are also sweating over the fitness and availability of several other players.
      Firstly, Kyle Walker could miss the World Cup to Southgate’s blow but will hope to return in time while teammate John Stones has been absent for Man City with a hamstring injury.
      Ben Chilwell was helped off by medical staff against Dinamo ZagrebCredit: Rex
      The defender had struggled with an ACL injury in the past and was substituted in the dying minutes, appearing in some discomfort before leaving the stadium on crutches.
      England begin their World Cup campaign in under two weeks

      France
      Paul Pogba will miss out for France, it has been confirmed.
      The Juventus talisman suffered a setback in his recovery from a knee injury, and will play no part in Qatar.
      While fellow midfield sensation N’Golo Kante will also not take to the biggest stage of them all.
      Kante has undergone an operation on a hamstring injury.
      Boubacar Kamara will not be seen in Qatar after suffering a knee injury and there are a host of doubts for the reigning champions.
      N’Golo Kante has suffered another injury setback for Chelsea
      Lucas Digne, Lucas Hernandez and Presnel Kimpembe are all doubtful to make the tournament as France may have to dive into their depth if they are to make it to the latter stages of the tournament.
      And Manchester United star Raphael Varane is the latest Frenchman who could miss the World Cup after going off in tears against Chelsea.
      But the latest news is that Varane is expected to be out of action until at least the World Cup, with there being a chance that he is back in time to travel with France, Erik ten Hag has confirmed.
      Germany
      Marco Reus was close to World Cup heartbreak after an ankle injury at Borussia Dortmund but could still make the tournament as Florian Wirtz faces a race against time to recover from an ACL issue.
      However, his German compatriot Timo Werner has been RULED OUT of the tournament after sustaining an ankle injury.
      Ghana
      Ghana have no injury concerns heading into the World Cup.
      Iran
      Allahyar Sayyadmanesh faces a race against time to return for England’s Group B rivals.
      Iran’s hopes will be lying on the fitness of ‘the Iranian Messi’ Sardar Azmoun, who has suffered with calf injuries this season but looks good to go.
      Sardar Azmoun will be hoping to fire Iran to gloryCredit: AFP
      Japan
      Former Arsenal winger Ryo Miyaichi has been ruled out with an ACL injury while another former Gunner Takuma Asano remains a doubt alongside Ko Itakura, both with knee problems.
      Mexico
      Jesus Corona will be out of the tournament after breaking his leg while Wolves striker Raul Jimenez faces a race against time to return.
      As things stand, it would take a huge stroke of fortune for Jimenez to return, he is currently in Mexico with a reported chronic fatigue problem, having missed most of Wolves’ recent Premier League games.
      The striker has not been his usual self since fracturing his skull in 2020, but has been a regular starter for Wolves since coming back.
      Jesus Corona is another big name absentee for the World Cup
      Netherlands
      Former Liverpool midfielder Gini Wijnaldum will miss the World Cup with a broken leg while Matthijs de Ligt remains a doubt with a groin injury.
      Poland
      Brighton’s Jakub Moder will miss the tournament with an ACL injury while Pawel Dawidowicz remains doubtful.
      Portugal
      Portugal have been hit hard as Diogo Jota is the latest confirmed absentee for the tournament.
      Diogo Jota will miss the World Cup after being stretchered off for LiverpoolCredit: PA
      Pedro Neto and Ricardo Periera are also unavailable through injury. Nuno Mendes and Pepe are also doubts going into the tournament.
      Qatar
      Host nation Qatar will be without Abdullah Al-Ahrak due to a cruciate ligament injury, ruling him out of the home tournament.
      Saudi Arabia
      Saudi Arabia have a fully fit team heading into the competition.
      Senegal
      There is a double blow for the African side as Bouna Sarr is out with a knee injury and Keita Balde is banned due to an anti-doping violation.
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      Serbia
      Ivan Ilicic and Darko Lazovic are both doubts for the World Cup due to muscular problems.
      South Korea
      South Korea will be hoping that Son Heung-min can make a full recovery after suffering a fracture around his eye, which requires surgery just weeks ahead of the tournament.
      Spain
      Luis Enrique’s side could be without duo Dani Olmo and Mikel Oyarzabal as they remain doubts heading into the World Cup.
      Dani Olmo and Mikel Oyarzabal will hope to return in time for Spain
      Switzerland
      The Swiss go into the competition with a fresh squad and no injury concerns.
      Tunisia
      Tunisia are optimistic, with no absentees as of now.
      United States
      Miles Robinson’s Achilles injury has put him as a doubt ahead of November but the rest of the squad are fit as they hope to fire the USMNT to glory this winter.
      Uruguay
      Ronald Araujo is one of the latest Barcelona players to be struck by injury, with his groin issue thought to have ruled him out of action.
      However, Director of National Teams of the Uruguayan Football Association, Jorge Giordano, has provided a positive update, stating that they expect Araujo to be fit for Uruguay.
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      Wales
      England’s final group stage opponents, Wales, have a fully fit side as they look to cause an upset in Qatar.
      Gareth Bale has had a few injury issues to deal with along the way, as has Aaron Ramsey, who is notoriously injury-prone.
      Who else will miss the 2022 World Cup in Qatar?
      The likes of Erling Haaland and Mo Salah will not be making the trip to the Middle East, having failed to qualify with their countries, while Italy also will not feature at the tournament.
      Alongside these noticeable absentees, other big names will miss out due to no fault of their own.
      We have you covered with all the latest injury news ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, missing through injury. More

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      Gareth Southgate FINALLY gets good injury news as Pep Guardiola confirms Kalvin Phillips WILL be fit for World Cup

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      PEP GUARDIOLA believes England midfielder Kalvin Phillips is on course to make the World Cup.Phillips will make his comeback for Manchester City after a shoulder injury this week.
      Kalvin Phillips has returned to Man City trainingCredit: PA
      And City boss Guardiola also gave a positive Qatar update on the fitness of Kyle Walker, with the defender making fast progress from groin surgery.
      Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate announces his 26-man squad on Thursday and was at the Etihad to watch City’s win over Fulham.
      And Guardiola said: “Kalvin is feeling really better. He trained with us yesterday for the second day, full session, full contact and will be involved for the Chelsea game in the EFL Cup on Wednesday.
      “Maybe on the bench, but he will be there.
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      “Kyle, too, is feeling much better. He had his surgery after Kalvin so maybe not so far ahead as Kalvin, but he is feeling fine.”
      The morale-boosting news for Southgate came just hours after Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell was ruled out with a hamstring injury, while Blues team-mate Reece James is also sidelined with a knee injury.
      Scans confirmed Chilwell tore his left hamstring against Dinamo Zagreb last Wednesday.
      The left-back tweeted: “Following my ACL injury I worked so hard to make sure I was ready for the World Cup.
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      “It has always been a dream of mine.
      “Unfortunately, this won’t be possible following my scan results.
      “I’ll do all I can to get back playing for Chelsea ASAP.”
      That means Arsenal’s versatile Ben White is poised for a World Cup comeback to ease England’s defensive crisis.
      The Gunners defender was part of the Euro 2020 squad but was not selected for September’s Nations League games.
      Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold is also tipped for inclusion on Thursday.
      White has been a revelation on the right side of the Gunners’ defence this season and could also play in defensive midfield.
      Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: “He is really enjoying it. He finds himself with a bit of freedom and you can see, when he has space, how he likes to attack. He is happy there.
      “He is very gifted. If you tell him to play in midfield, he will.”
      Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin limped off with a hamstring injury in the 2-0 home defeat to Leicester in yesterday’s late kick-off.
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      Toffees boss Frank Lampard said: “It was a sensation in the hamstring. We don’t feel like it is a bad injury but we just have to wait for the scan.”
      In theory, Southgate could name a number of injured players in his squad on Thursday and then wait for the latest updates on their condition before finalising the list four days later on Fifa’s deadline day.
      Dominic Calvert-Lewin limped out of Everton’s clash with LeicesterCredit: Reuters More

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      Watch Gareth Bale’s dramatic 127th-minute equaliser as LAFC win MLS Cup on pens to earn Wales icon even more silverware

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      GARETH BALE jumped off the bench to score a dramatic extra-time leveller as Los Angeles FC scooped MLS glory last night.The Welsh ace sparked wild celebrations after nodding in an 127th minute equaliser when it had looked like a brace from London-born centre-half Jack Elliott was sending Philadelphia to their first ever MLS title.
      Gareth Bale scored an incredible 127th-minute equaliser for LAFC after coming off the bench in extra timeCredit: AP
      Bale’s dramatic header sent the MLS final to penalties as LAFC won the titleCredit: Reuters
      LAFC captain, and former Arsenal star, Carlos Vela lifted the MLS CupCredit: AP
      Bale’s late show sent a wild game into penalties and after sub keeper John McCarthy pulled off two saves in the shoot-out, Ilie Sanchez rolled home the winner.
      Bale has struggled with injury since moving to California in the summer and will now head to the World Cup with Wales off the back of just two starts Stateside but with another piece of silverware for his mantlepiece.
      The 33 year-old has been in full training but has failed to really break into a side led by former Arsenal forward Carlos Vela who was excellent for the home side until being replaced by the Welsh skipper six minutes into extra-time.
      He showed a few nice touches but was relatively quiet until his last gasp effort sent the home fans wild.

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      This was the first time the top two seeds from the Eastern and Western conference had met in the end of season showpiece and it was lively from the off even if decent chances were few and far between.
      The home side looked the most dangerous, however, and they drew first blood on 28 minutes, Kel Acosta’s free-kick deflecting off Jack McGlynn in the wall leaving Union keeper Andre Blake with no chance.
      LAFC began to dominate possession with Philadelphia offering little in attack and Blake was on hand to produce a smart stop to deny Diego Palacios who was nicely teed up by Vela before the dangerous Cristian Bouanga fired just over.
      Philadelphia drew level on 58 minutes when Gazdag smashed home from close range after being played onside and looked to have won it when Murillo headed in late on.
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      But just moments later, Englishman Elliott powered in a header to level and take the game into another 30 minutes.
      LAFC’s plans were rocked when keeper Maxime Crepeau was red carded in the second period of extra-time for a horror challenge on Cory Burke before Elliott’s second of the game looked to have sealed it for Philadelphia.
      But then up popped Bale – and McCarthy – to save the day. More

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      Three Lions ace Ivan Toney investigated by FA over match-betting ahead of this month’s World Cup

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      THREE Lions ace Ivan Toney is at the centre of a match-betting probe.The £50million Brentford striker is being investigated by Football Association officials over allegations of wagers placed on games.
      Three Lions ace Ivan Toney is at the centre of a match-betting probe.Credit: Getty
      The allegations are believed to relate solely to the period when Toney was at one of his previous clubs – not current Premier League side BrentfordCredit: Focus Images
      Toney seen training with England skipper Harry KaneCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      Toney, 26, is widely expected to be in England’s squad for the World Cup in Qatar, which starts a fortnight today.
      Astonishingly, despite the ongoing investigation, he was picked for Three Lions duty during recent Nations League matches — but did not play.
      The allegations are believed to relate solely to the period when Toney was at one of his previous clubs. A source said: “Ivan is aware of the investigation. He is concerned but is adamant that he has done nothing wrong.
      “The FA is duty-bound to act fully on allegations they receive. But it is obviously a highly sensitive matter for the FA as he is a potential candidate for the England World Cup squad.”
      READ MORE ON QATAR 22
      No charges have been brought by FA chiefs against the player.
      There is no suggestion of any criminal activity by Toney — who also previously played for Newcastle United — or that he attempted to fix the outcome of any match.
      However, under FA rules, all ­professional men and top women players face a worldwide ban on all football betting.
      The laws are so strict they include gambling on transfers, manager jobs and team selection and apply to players and managers, match officials and club staff.
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      They state that players “shall not bet, either directly or indirectly, or instruct, permit, cause or enable any person to bet on the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of, or occurrence in or in connection with a football match or competition.
      “Or any other matter concerning or related to football anywhere in the world, including, for example and without limitation, the transfer of players, employment of managers, team selection or disciplinary matters.”
      Last night Toney tweeted: “I have been assisting the Football Association with their enquiries and will not be making any comment until such investigation has reached its conclusion. 
      “I am a proud Englishman and it has always been my dream to play for my country at a World Cup.”
      Toney — regarded as one of the world’s best penalty-takers — was selected for Three Lions duty for Nations League matches against Germany and Italy in September.
      Despite hailing Toney’s place at the training camp, England boss Southgate failed to use him, then appeared to cast doubt on his squad place. 
      Southgate said: “I understand the push as it is so close to the World Cup but there is life for Ivan Toney beyond the World Cup as well. He’s very much in the frame and what he does with his club between now and then is also really important.”
      The fact that he was selected by FA bosses while he was being probed by the investigators from the same organisation will prompt questions about the governing body’s handling of the matter.
      If Toney is found to have breached FA rules his selection would be in conflict with the FA’s commitment to transparency over betting. Its website says: “The FA wants to preserve what is great in the beautiful game and has devised rules regarding betting in football to help protect the integrity and future of football.”
      Despite hailing Toney’s place at the training camp, England boss Southgate failed to use him, then appeared to cast doubt on his place in the squadCredit: Getty
      If Toney is found to have breached FA rules his selection would be in conflict with the FA’s commitment to transparency over betting.Credit: Rex
      It adds: “The FA, the Gambling Commission and betting companies have sophisticated systems to monitor and detect breaches of the betting rules. These organisations advise us of issues that arise in the cash, telephone and online betting markets.
      “If found guilty, then this can lead to financial penalties, suspensions, and in some instances, lifetime bans.
      “It is your responsibility to make sure you know the rules and help support the collective effort from the football authorities, players, clubs and officials, to protect the integrity of the game. The rules have never been clearer or easier to understand.”
      A source said: “It seems incredible that a high-profile star could be chosen for England duty at the same time that he is being investigated over betting. England footballers are role models for millions of youngsters and their conduct in relation to the sport must reflect that status.
      “Fans have a right to know if a star player is being probed — their focus must be entirely on winning the World Cup with no distractions.”
      Tory MP Julian Knight, chairman of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport select committee, said: “These are serious allegations being made.
      “Football needs to be transparent. Any allegation of this nature needs to be investigated and there is a clear public interest.”
      Although there is no suggestion Toney is a gambling addict, Gareth Southgate is concerned about the impact of gambling on players.
      He witnessed first-hand its impact on ex-England team-mates Paul Merson, Tony Adams and Paul Gascoigne when he was a player.
      Before taking up his current role, he said: “Gambling is an addictive pastime. I think it’s for the national manager to step in if they feel there is an issue. 
      “People have always gambled in squads and sometimes in the squads I was involved in it got people together. But some of the sums being spoken at the moment would be disturbing no matter what you’re earning.
      “There is a duty for everybody involved to make sure those problems don’t get out of hand.” 
      The FA’s regulations were put in place after football was rocked by a string of betting controversies in 2014. A number of top players have been hit with bans — though they all involved more serious conduct than that being investigated over Toney.
      In 2020 ex-Chelsea star Daniel Sturridge was banned for four months and fined £150,000 for texting brother Leon to bet on his possible move from Liverpool to Sevilla.
      In 2019 Newcastle and England full-back Kieran Trippier was banned for ten weeks and fined £70,000 for WhatsApping pals “Lump on if you want” over his rumoured move to Atletico Madrid.
      In 2017, Joey Barton was banned for 18 months after placing 1,260 bets on matches between 2006 and 2013 — including games in which he played.
      In October ex-Reading defender Kynan Isaac was banned for 12 years for deliberately earning a yellow card in an FA Cup first-round tie.
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      He was hit with a ten-year ban for the scam with pals and a further two years for failing to co-operate with the FA investigation and further betting.
      Toney’s agent and the FA were approached for comment. 
      SPOT-KICK KING’S RISE TO THE TOPBy Michael Hamilton
      IVAN Toney has risen from relative obscurity to the brink of England’s World Cup squad.
      He has won plaudits for his swashbuckling style and has scored eight times this season for Premier League side Brentford.
      Toney joined Newcastle in 2015 as a teenager but only made two appearances for the Toon, who sent him out on loans. He plied his trade at Wigan, Scunthorpe and Barnsley.
      He moved to Peterborough in 2018 — scoring 40 times in 76 appearances before switching to Brentford in 2020 for a modest £5million.
      Toney scored 31 Championship goals to fire the West London club into the Premier League. His good form continued last season as he scored 12 times.
      He has an impressive penalty record – netting 25 of 26 spot-kicks.
      A World Cup place would take him to new heights. More

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      Harry Redknapp: James Maddison one of my two favourite Prem players… in ANY other country he’d be on plane to World Cup

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      ASSUMING the hospitals aren’t full of broken England players, we are entering a big week for Gareth Southgate.The Three Lions manager names his 26-man squad for the World Cup on Thursday.
      James Maddison has been in exceptional form for some time now and Harry Redknapp is a big fanCredit: Reuters
      Maddison’s only England cap came back in 2019Credit: AFP or licensors
      Right now, it’s a wonder he will fill the team coach with so many players going down injured – such a dilemma for managers of both clubs and country.
      It’s natural that players with World Cup hopes will have the tournament on their minds, even though their only concern is the next Premier League match – and rightly so.
      Trying to pick a squad is almost as exhausting as a training session in the Qatar heat.
      England seem blessed in some positions but recent fitness issues leave Southgate down to the bare bones in others.
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      Defence is a nightmare in particular. I was so sorry to see Ben Chilwell become the latest casualty, with his hamstring injury playing for Chelsea, and I wish him a speedy recovery.
      As a manager, I always loved exciting, attacking players who can do the unexpected. Footballers with a touch of the artist within.
      It’s why I am such a huge fan of James Maddison. Him and Jack Grealish are two of my favourite midfielders.
      But Maddison, in particular, I feel especially sorry for. He is playing well in a struggling team this season at Leicester.
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      Six league strikes tells you he still has his eye for a goal and his drive for the team is impressive.
      In any other country, a player like Maddison would be on the plane to the World Cup without a moment’s hesitation.
      He is a clever player but, unfortunately for him, there are a lot of them around at present.
      Grealish, Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, Mason Mount – not all exactly the same, but all players who can unlock opposition teams.
      Given the nature of international football these days and maybe a little to do with the conditions despite air-conditioned stadiums – there will be a lot of tight games.
      Grealish, Maddison and the others will be needed more than ever to make a breakthrough.
      Up front we are in good shape. Harry Kane, barring a disaster, is clearly the leader of the dressing room. In terms of out-and-out strikers I’d also take Ivan Toney and Callum Wilson.
      Wilson, I know, had his injury problems but he is in great form at the moment.
      Sun Columnist Redknapp would love Maddison to go to the World CupCredit: PA
      Redknapp has been massively impressed by Jude Bellingham captaining Dortmund and 19Credit: Getty
      Sure, it’s a gamble taking him and he hasn’t played for England for three years. But at every tournament there seems to be a surprise player who comes from nowhere into the reckoning.
      Putting him and Brentford’s Toney alongside Kane would be the perfect trio to choose from. All three are experienced penalty-takers, too.
      With those close games coming, it would be an asset for Southgate to be able to bring on three experienced penalty-takers. Instead of having to rely on rookies such as Jadon Sancho and Saka to cope with that pressure like they did last summer at the Euro 2020 final.
      In midfield, I am such a fan of Jude Bellingham. To be captain of Borussia Dortmund at 19 tells you a lot of what this boy is about.
      What a few weeks this lad could have. I am so looking forward to seeing his maturity up against the best in the world.
      The rest of the midfield picks itself but I would take James Ward-Prowse. What a club player he is. A proper midfielder, as I would say. A great all-rounder who should be at a top-six club.
      In defence, we are so short it’s a case of every man standing coming along.
      By the way, I can’t understand the debate about Trent Alexander-Arnold. He can look vulnerable to a ball inside him, or to balls at the back post. But it’s nothing that 20 minutes extra a day wouldn’t solve.
      At Portsmouth I had similar issues with Glen Johnson. He relied so much on pace that his positioning sometimes went out of kilter.
      Alexander-Arnold is just the same — but reset him and he can be a huge asset to the squad.

      MEMORIES OF RONNIE
      Hereford fans paid tribute to Ronnie Radford ahead of their FA Cup first round tieCredit: PA
      IT was so sad to hear about the passing of Ronnie Radford this week.
      His stunning goal against Newcastle in the 1972 FA Cup should be cherished forever as an iconic moment in the competition.
      That was the third round of course and, in the fourth, West Ham went to Edgar Street fearing another upset. I was playing for the Hammers at the time.
      We drew 0-0 there and the replay would make for a great quiz question. Due to an energy crisis, much like today’s, the replay was not under the lights in midweek but played on a Monday lunchtime to save us putting on the floodlights at Upton Park.
      There was also a three-day week in operation at the time so more than 42,000 people squeezed into Upton Park and on the roof of the flats behind the old North Bank. What an image that was.
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      Geoff Hurst had little time for the romance of the Cup — sticking a hat-trick past Hereford.
      But what a performance from Ronnie and the Hereford lads. God bless. More