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      Thomas Tuchel wants England job if Southgate walks away after World Cup exit… but FA keen to appoint British coach

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      THOMAS TUCHEL wants the England job — if  Gareth Southgate decides to walk away.The former Chelsea chief is back in Germany after being sacked by the Blues in September.
      Ex-Chelsea and PSG chief Thomas Tuchel would be keen on bossing the Three Lions’ should current manager Gareth Southgate step down.Credit: Alamy
      But Tuchel, 49, would love to make a swift return to England as boss of the Three Lions.
      He has seen first-hand all the young talent at the country’s disposal, both at Stamford Bridge and in opposition teams.
      Chelsea stars Mason Mount, Reece James, Conor Gallagher, Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell have all been part of the current set-up.
      The FA is desperate for Southgate to stay on despite Saturday’s 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
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      The Three Lions head coach intends to take his time to decide about his future.
      His current contract runs until the end of 2024, with the European Championship in Germany barely 18 months away.
      If Southgate did choose to quit, it is understood the FA would prefer to appoint a candidate from the British Isles.
      Graham Potter,  Brendan Rodgers and Eddie Howe  would all be in the frame.
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      And Argentine ex-Spurs chief Mauricio Pochettino is high on the list, if judged purely by bookies’ odds.
      Southgate will assess his future once the crushing frustration in Qatar is replaced by a deeper analysis of England’s situation.
      He said: “After every tournament we’ve sat down and reviewed and reflected.
      “So we need a bit of time to make sure everyone makes the right decisions.
      “Whenever I’ve finished these tournaments I’ve needed time to make the correct decisions because emotionally you go through so many different feelings.
      “The energy it takes through these tournaments is enormous.
      “I want to make the right decisions, whatever that is, for the team, for England, for the FA.
      “I think it’s right to take a bit of time to do that because I know in the past how my feelings have fluctuated in the immediate aftermath of tournaments.” More

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      Players, fans and football legends beg Gareth Southgate to stay on and lead England to victory in Germany at Euro 2024

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      PLAYERS and fans last night begged Gareth Southgate to stay on as England manager.As he arrived back in the UK from Qatar amid World Cup heartache, he said he will “reflect and review” his position.
      Southgate waves after landing with the England team at Birmingham AirportCredit: Simon Jones
      Gareth Southgate has been begged to stay on as England managerCredit: Getty
      Southgate with Kieran Trippier in Qatar before departingCredit: Reuters
      But it sparked a huge outpouring of support for Southgate to lead the Three Lions to Euro 2024 victory in Germany in 18 months.
      Midfielder Declan Rice said: “I really hope he stays.”
      But as dejected players and staff prepared to fly home, a huge swelling of support was growing for Southgate to stay on.
      England and Manchester United defender Harry Maguire hailed the Three Lions’ boss as “amazing”.
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      He said: “I’m sure if you asked every player in the team they wouldn’t be able to speak highly enough of him.”
      Ex-England keeper Peter Shilton believes the 52-year-old gaffer can end the men’s 56-year wait for a trophy.
      He said: “Southgate must stay on as England manager. We have the basis of a team that will eventually win a big trophy. The future looks bright. Keep the faith.”
      Southgate’s young guns outplayed the French world champions at the Al Bayt Stadium but were punished at key moments — while Harry Kane’s uncharacteristic penalty miss late on sealed their fate.
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      Southgate — who has led England to a World Cup semi and a Euros final — is under contract until December 2024 but will now have talks with the FA over his future.
      He refused to commit to staying on for the difficult Euro 2024 campaign — where our first qualifier will be in March against our 2020 conquerors Italy.
      He said: “Whenever I’ve finished these tournaments I’ve needed time to make the correct decision.
      “Emotionally you go through so many different feelings and the energy that it takes through these tournaments is enormous.
      He’s achieved incredible, incredible things for his country. He’s been in the semi-finals, and he’s been in the finals. He’s got to do it again because there are players there, younger players, to take us forward.Paul Parker
      “I want to make the right decision, whatever that is for the team, for England, the FA. I think it is right to take time to do that.”
      Paul Parker, an Italia 90 England star, last night added to the chorus of support for him to stay.
      He said: “Gareth Southgate’s going to go back, and he will want to reflect on what happened, but he’s got to be there for the next tournament — he has to be.
      “He’s achieved incredible, incredible things for his country. He’s been in the semi-finals, and he’s been in the finals. He’s got to do it again because there are players there, younger players, to take us forward.”
      Former England manager Sam Allardyce said: “I’d be surprised if he’s not carrying on for at least the next two years. There’s nothing better as a manager than looking at a team and saying, ‘I have a very, very good squad and I have a very good team at international level’.
      “Every manager wants to work with the best and I think he’s the best England has had for many, many years.
      “More young lads are coming through, so we are getting better and hopefully more resilient.
      “And in the end, hopefully, we can clinch a tournament.”
      Emotionally you go through so many different feelings and the energy that it takes through these tournaments is enormous. I want to make the right decision, whatever that is for the team, for England, the FA. I think it is right to take time to do that.Gareth Southgate
      Man United and England legend Gary Neville wants him to remain even after his current contract ends.
      He said: “I would love Gareth to stay on for another two years. I’d love him to stay on beyond that, whether it be actually as the coach or whether it be in a role in the FA in the future.”
      Fans also pleaded for Southgate to stay after the defeat to France, while Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio was coming under mounting criticism.
      John Jackson, a 59-year-old retired joiner from Gateshead, said: “We were by far the better team against France and would have won if it wasn’t for one kick of the ball and a dodgy ref.
      “This England team is still a work in progress but there’s only one man who can lead us to victory in the Euros — and that man is Gareth Southgate.”
      England Supporters’ Band trumpeter John Hemmingham, 59, said: “It would be a disaster if we lost him now. We’ve just outplayed the world champions and don’t need a new broom to come in and sweep away all the good work he’s done.”
      Sun and TalkTV star Piers Morgan added: “Could anyone else have done better with this (very good) squad of players? I don’t think so.”
      Meanwhile, Maguire risked a fine for blasting the ref, who refused two England penalty appeals and ignored a string of French fouls. He said: “It was really, really poor.”
      Southgate was seen chatting with Kieran Trippier as the players left yesterday while Jude Bellingham, Rice and Jack Grealish waved and gave the thumbs-up to fans.
      Kane was nowhere to be seen as the rest boarded a bus to the airport.
      Read More on The Sun
      He tweeted: “Absolutely gutted. We’ve given it everything and it’s come down to a small detail which I take responsibility for.”
      Saturday night’s game was the most-watched TV event of the year, pulling in 20.4million viewers, ITV said.
      Jack Grealish gives a thumbs-up before leaving QatarCredit: Dan Charity
      Midfielder Declan Rice publicly backed his bossCredit: Reuters
      Jude Bellingham leaves the team base to fly homeCredit: Dan Charity
      Declan Rice said: ‘I really hope he stays. I love playing under him’Credit: Rex More

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      Meet Morocco’s ‘David Beckham’ Achraf Hakimi who’s married to ‘world’s most beautiful actress’

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      MOROCCO might be the underdogs but they have already got the makings of a superstar squad on and off the pitch.And after French striker Kylian Mbappe’s uncontrolled laughter at the site of Three Lions captain Harry Kane missing a crucial penalty, most of England will be behind them.
      Achraf Hakimi is married to Hiba Abouk – described as one of the world’s most beautiful actressesCredit: Getty
      Hakimi captured the world’s attention with his winning penalty which knocked Spain out of the World CupCredit: Getty
      The North African side will be looking to their answer to David Beckham, Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi, to help them see off France in the semi-finals.
      The 24-year-old captured the world’s attention with his winning penalty which knocked Spain out of the World Cup last week.
      Hakimi is married to Hiba Abouk, 36, described as one of the world’s most beautiful actresses.
      The glamorous couple appeared on the front of Vogue Arabia in October.
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      His cleaner mum and street fruit seller dad emigrated from Morocco to Madrid — where Achraf was born — for a better life.
      Achraf said in 2020: “We come from a low-income family that struggled to make ends meet.
      “Today, I fight for them every day. They gave up their lives for me.
      “They took many things away from my brothers in order for me to succeed.”
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      Hakimi played for local team CD Colonia Ofigevi before Real Madrid offered him a trial when he was seven.
      He played his debut for them aged 18, before signing with Borussia Dortmund on a two-year loan.
      He was then sold to Inter Milan for £35million before transferring to PSG for £60million and is now one of the top paid footballers, taking home more than £1million each month.
      In July 2018 he met Hiba and they married two years ago.
      First son Amin was born in February 2020 and another boy this year.
      Like Beckham, Hakimi was a young dad at 22, and says he has no expectation for his sons to follow in his footballing footsteps.
      Morocco — known as the Atlas Lions — are the first African and first Arab team to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
      Captain Romain Saiss is married to Arab Idol popstar Salma Rachid.
      Team mates Hakim Ziyech, Ilias Chair, and Anass Zaroury all play for British clubs — Chelsea, Queens Park Rangers and Burnley.
      Hakimi married Hiba two years ago after meeting in 2018Credit: Getty
      The glamorous couple appeared on the front of Vogue Arabia in OctoberCredit: Getty
      Hakimi said: ‘We come from a low-income family that struggled to make ends meet’Credit: Getty
      The Atlas Lion, celebrating with his cleaner mum, added: ‘Today, I fight for them every day. They gave up their lives for me’Credit: Rex
      Kylian Mbappe’s uncontrolled laughter at the site of Harry Kane missing a penaltyCredit: Rex More

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      ‘We were so close’ – Gutted Southgate reflects on World Cup KO and says England ‘feeding at top table of world football’

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE claims England went “so close” to glory in Qatar and are now consistently “feeding at the top table of world football”.The Three Lions’ boss has “few regrets” despite Saturday’s unlucky 2-1 loss to favourites France in the World Cup quarter-finals.
      Gareth Southgate, seen departing Birmingham airport after returning from Qatar, says England have ‘grown’ despite World Cup agonyCredit: Simon Jones
      Three Lions’ boss Southgate regrets little despite the missed opportunityCredit: AP
      Southgate is “reviewing” his future after a semi-final spot in 2018, shootout woe in the Euro 2020 final and now another near miss.
      But he believes England have “exciting” strength in depth and are finally cemented in the international elite.
      Southgate told  England’s YouTube channel: “Ultimately we’ve fallen short, I can’t get away from that.
      “But we’re feeding at the top table of European and world football consistently now.
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      “If we’re in that place with the depth of squad that we’ve got, then that’s exciting and important for England. 
      “It’s a difficult time for everybody. We’re really aware of that. I think the players have represented them in the right way, played in the right way.”
      Southgate admitted the brutality of a sudden exit – sealed when Harry Kane missed a late second penalty – is hard to take after so long preparing.
      Speaking in the Lions’ Den with M&S Food host Josh Denzel, he said: “It’s a really strange feeling because the end of a tournament is so stark.
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      “Everyone is packing everything up, after going through years of preparation and then months of tighter preparation.
      “There’s also the feeling that we’ve come so close and the performance, we were happy with.
      “We felt we could’ve gone on and done more but yet, I really have few regrets about the whole thing so emotionally it’s a rollercoaster.” More

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      England squad touch down in UK as World Cup stars receive heroes’ welcome at Birmingham Airport after quarter-final loss

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      ENGLAND’S stars and staff have touched back down on home turf following last night’s heartbreaking World Cup exit.The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium.
      England’s squad have landed back on home soil after their World Cup exitCredit: PA
      Gareth Southgate waves to the cameras as he heads home from the World CupCredit: Simon Jones
      Jude Bellingham gives a thumbs up as he departs Birmingham AirportCredit: PA
      Kyle Walker looked rather more subdued after the painful defeat to the FrenchCredit: Simon Jones
      Les Bleus controversially opened the scoring with Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range stunner and Harry Kane levelled things up from the penalty spot before Olivier Giroud extended his scoring record to 53 goals.
      England’s heroic captain had the chance to equalise once more with another spot-kick but he sadly missed the target.
      That meant that our boys were on the next plane home – but not before they showed their class off the pitch this morning.
      England showered hotel staff with gifts as they left to fly home from Qatar.
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      Players handed out signed shirts and hugged workers, who in turn said Southgate’s 25-man squad had “made them feel like princes” and became “like family”.
      Midfield sensation Jude Bellingham urged fans to “stick with us” as he went over to chat outside the hotel and sign autographs.
      But Southgate says he is “reviewing” his future with FA chiefs, adding this was normal procedure after major tournaments.
      However, those thoughts and the painful memories of yesterday will have to be cast aside after our gallant heroes returned back to normal life this evening.
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      Bellingham put on a brave face as he gave a thumbs up while leaving Birmingham Airport, while Phil Foden was happy to pose for photos after he touched down at Manchester Airport.
      Meanwhile, Kyle Walker looked a lot more subdued as he headed back to Man City with his head bowed in the backseat of his chauffeur driven motor.
      Southgate, 52, is now weighing up if he should stay in charge.
      He said: “After every tournament we’ve sat down and reviewed and reflected.
      “So we need a bit of time to make sure everyone makes the right decisions.”
      “Whenever I’ve finished these tournaments I’ve needed time to make the correct decisions because emotionally you go through so many different feelings.”
      Harry Kane missed a late penalty that would have sent the game to extra-timeCredit: Getty
      The brave skipper has taken responsibility after the heartbreaking lossCredit: Getty
      But it was our brave captain Kane, who blazed his 84th-minute penalty, who has taken responsibility for the World Cup exit and he says the result “will hurt for a while”.
      He said: “It is a really tough night to take.
      “I am gutted, the team are gutted. We had full belief that we could achieve something special at this World Cup but it came down to small details.
      “I thought on the night we had the better chances and better spells in the game.
      “It comes down to execution. As captain, I take it on the chin and responsibility missing the penalty.
      Read More on The Sun
      “It is hard to take for sure but I can be proud of the group, proud of each other for what we’ve done.
      “This will hurt for a while but we will dust ourselves down to get ready in the future.” More

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      Kylian Mbappe labels Cristiano Ronaldo ‘GOAT’ and praises Marcus Rashford as England and Portugal crash out of World Cup

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      KYLIAN MBAPPE has hailed “GOAT” Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford – after initially irking England fans.The France striker celebrated with a wry smile when Three Lions’ skipper Harry Kane missed a late match-saving penalty in the World Cup quarter-final.
      Kylian Mbappe hugged Marcus Rashford and was later supportive on social media after France beat Englang 2-1 in the World Cup quarter-finalsCredit: Getty
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s face says it all as Morocco stunned PortugalCredit: Getty
      But he responded positively after icon Ronaldo and England sub Rashford posted touching messages following their weekend exits from Qatar.
      Manchester United discard Ron, 37, hinted he is considering his international future after appearing to accept his greatest remaining dream – Portugal winning the World Cup – is now over.
      Mbappe replied to the social media post with a GOAL emoji.
      And when Rashford posted to say England had given everything, Mbappe sent a heart emoji.
      READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
      France are now favourites to retain their 2018 crown.
      They face Portugal’s shock conquerors Morocco, whilst Argentina take on Croatia in the other semi-final.
      And five-goal Mbappe is on course to win the Golden Boot.
      Second-half sub Ronaldo was in tears as he departed down the tunnel early following Morocco’s 1-0 victory.
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      He later posted: “Winning a World Cup for Portugal was the biggest and most ambitious dream of my career. 
      “I fought for it. I fought hard for this dream.
      “In the 5 presences that I scored in World Cups over 16 years, always alongside great players and supported by millions of Portuguese people.
      “I gave my all. I left everything on the field. I never turned my face to the fight and I never gave up on that dream.”Unfortunately, yesterday the dream ended. It is not worth reacting hot.
      “I just want everyone to know that much has been said, much has been written, much has been speculated, but my dedication to Portugal has not changed for an instant. 
      “I was always one more person fighting for everyone’s goal and I would never turn my back on my teammates and my country.”For now, there’s not much more to say. Thank you, Portugal. Thank you, Qatar. 
      “The dream was beautiful while it lasted… Now, it’s time to be a good advisor and allow each one to draw their own conclusions.”
      Rashford’s own message was shorter but equally from the heart.
      The Red Devils’ frontman, came on in the 85th minute, just after Kane had failed to repeat his earlier spot-kick leveller.
      Read More on The Sun
      And with France clinging on to triumph 2-1, Rashford told his 13.2million Instagram followers: “The last few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions, each and every one of our team gave everything we had to be ready for what was thrown at us, we got close, but not close enough.
      “I’ll make a promise that we will come again! Thank you for the unconditional support we have received throughout the tournament, it hasn’t gone unnoticed.” More

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      World Cup 2022 LIVE: England return home after quarter-final loss, NEW ball revealed, Saka breaks silence – updates

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      ENGLAND are OUT of the World Cup and have returned home after their defeat to France.Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range strike saw the French take the lead but Harry Kane netted from the spot to level the score.
      However, Olivier Giroud netted to put France ahead towards the end of the game.
      But Harry Kane missed a penalty late on as the Three Lions went crashing out.
      Elsewhere, a new ball has been unveiled ahead of the semi-finals as Morocco shocked the world to make the next round.
      They join Argentina and Croatia, who both progressed, and will face France.
      Keep up to date with all of the action from our live match blogs ahead of the semi-finals:

      World Cup 2022 sign up offer: Get £40 in FREE BETS when you stake £10 at Sky Bet
      Stay tuned with all the latest from the tournament…
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      Tuchel wants England job
      Thomas Tuchel wants the England job — if  Gareth Southgate decides to walk away.
      The former Chelsea chief is back in Germany after being sacked by the Blues in September.
      But Tuchel, 49, would love to make a swift return to England as boss of the Three Lions.
      He has seen first-hand all the young talent at the country’s disposal, both at Stamford Bridge and in opposition teams.
      Chelsea stars Mason Mount, Reece James, Conor Gallagher, Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell have all been part of the current set-up.
      The FA is desperate for Southgate to stay on despite Saturday’s 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
      Giroud ‘seconds from being subbed’ before goal
      Olivier Giroud was reportedly seconds from being subbed when he broke England’s hearts.
      The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium last night.
      Get French Football News stated: “Didier Deschamps had decided to take Olivier Giroud off for Marcus Thuram before France’s all-time scorer netted – just 1 more stoppage in play & he would have been off. Fine margins indeed.”
      ‘We were so close’ says Southgate
      Gareth Southgate claims England went “so close” to glory in Qatar and are now consistently “feeding at the top table of world football”.
      Southgate told England’s YouTube channel: “Ultimately we’ve fallen short, I can’t get away from that.
      “But we’re feeding at the top table of European and world football consistently now.
      “If we’re in that place with the depth of squad that we’ve got, then that’s exciting and important for England. 
      “It’s a difficult time for everybody. We’re really aware of that. I think the players have represented them in the right way, played in the right way.”
      England arrive home
      England’s stars and staff have touched back down on home turf following last night’s heartbreaking World Cup exit.
      The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium.

      Les Bleus controversially opened the scoring with Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range stunner and Harry Kane levelled things up from the penalty spot before Olivier Giroud extended his scoring record with 53 goals.
      England’s heroic captain had the chance to equalise once more with another spot-kick but he sadly missed the target.
      That meant that our boys were on the next plane home – but not before they showed their class off the pitch this morning.
      England showered hotel staff with gifts as they left to fly home from Qatar.
      Mbappe hails Ronaldo
      Kylian Mbappe has hailed “GOAT” Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford – after initially irking England fans.
      The France striker celebrated with a huge mocking laugh when Three Lions’ skipper Harry Kane missed a late match-saving penalty in the World Cup quarter-final.
      But he responded positively after icon Ronaldo and England sub Rashford posted touching messages following their weekend exits from Qatar.
      Manchester United discard Ron, 37, hinted he is considering his international future after appearing to accept his greatest remaining dream – Portugal winning the World Cup – is now over.
      Mbappe replied to the social media post with a GOAL emoji.
      And when Rashford posted to say England had given everything, Mbappe sent a heart emoji.
      New ball, please
      FIFA have revealed their new World Cup ball for the semis and finals.
      The “Al Hilm” ball – which translates to “The Dream” in Arabic – replaces Al Rihla – “The Journey”.

      Lionel Messi’s Argentina, who beat Netherland’s, face Croatia on Tuesday night.
      A day later, reigning champions France face Morocco following their dramatic win over England.
      Saka’s breaks silence
      Bukayo Saka has broken his silence after England’s World Cup exit with a touching social media post thanking the “special” squad, Gareth Southgate and supporters.
      He wrote: “I can’t explain how I feel today, but we gave everything out there and we really wish we could have brought it home for you all this time.
      “I just wanted to say a genuine thank you to our fans, you’ve all been amazing both at the games and at home this tournament and we felt it.
      “This group are really special and talented, so although we are disappointed now, I am really excited for our future. Thank you to my @England family – my team mates, Gareth, the coaching and all the backroom staff for all their hard work and dedication to help us get this far.
      “We will build from this and with your support we will keep improving and making progress together. See you all soon.”
      Fury supports England’s heroes
      Tyson Fury sent out a message of support to the heartbroken England squad after their World Cup KO.
      He tweeted: “Hold your heads up lions. We Go Again @EnglandFootball.
      “Support Our Team. Support Our Boys. Support Our Team. In Victory and In Defeat.”
      Generous England
      Caring England stars showered hotel staff with gifts as they left to fly home from Qatar following an agonising World Cup exit.
      The Three Lions departed as classily off the pitch as they had on it with their unlucky 2-1 quarter-final loss to France.

      England players handed out signed shirts and hugged workers, who in turn said Gareth Southgate’s 25-man squad had “made them feel like princes” and became “like family”.
      Midfield sensation Jude Bellingham urged fans to “stick with us” as he went over to chat outside the hotel and sign autographs.
      Dave the Cat heading to UK
      It wasn’t all doom and gloom for England after their heartbreaking World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
      The Three Lions’ unofficial tournament mascot, Dave the cat, began his journey to the UK as Gareth Southgate’s squad also headed for home.

      Dave became the squad’s mascot after joining England stars at meal times during their stay in Qatar.
      John Stones and Kyle Walker pledged to adopt their furry friend if England won the World Cup.
      But, despite crashing out 2-1 to France on Saturday, Dave is still heading to the UK to be rehomed.
      He was seen being loaded into a crate to begin his journey shortly after Jack Grealish, Harry Maguire and Co left their Souq Al Wakrah hotel today.
      Potter & Howe tipped for England
      Graham Potter and Eddie Howe are among the favourites to be appointed England’s next manager, with Thomas Tuchel and Steven Gerrard also in the mix.
      That’s according to bookmakers Betfair, who’ve installed the pair as frontrunners to succeed Gareth Southgate.
      Many have described Chelsea’s Potter as the obvious long-term successor to Southgate and he’s available at 7/2 to secure the position.
      Newcastle chief Eddie Howe is fractionally behind in the betting market at 4/1 to swap St James’ Park for St George’s Park.
      Pochettino, who revealed he was open to managing a national side, is further behind at 5s.
      Steve Cooper is 6/1, ahead of Thomas Tuchel (10/1), Frank Lampard (11/1) and Steven Gerrard (14/1).
      England next manager
      Betfair odds

      Graham Potter – 7/2
      Eddie Howe – 4/1
      Mauricio Pochettino – 5/1
      Steve Cooper – 6/1
      Thomas Tuchel – 10/1
      Frank Lampard – 11/1
      Steven Gerrard – 14/1
      Arsene Wenger – 16/1
      Brendan Rodgers – 16/1
      Sarina Wiegman – 16/1
      Wayne Rooney – 20/1
      Dean Smith – 25/1

      Morgan backs Southgate
      Piers Morgan has led the calls from players and pundits for Gareth Southgate to stay as England boss.
      He tweeted: “Lots of debate over whether Gareth Southgate should continue as England manager. My criteria is this: could anyone else have done better with this (very good) squad of players?
      “I don’t think so, and I like the way his team plays & behaves under him. So, I say: carry on Gareth.”
      Lloris backs Kane
      Hugo Lloris insists Harry Kane has the strength of character to bounce back from his World Cup penalty agony.
      The veteran keeper said: “There were a lot of emotions out there because we were in the middle of a battle and at the end we were all very happy.
      “But on a personal level, I am also saddened because Harry is a team-mate, a man whom I respect enormously and someone who took responsibility in a crucial moment of the game. 
      “It was a turning point of the match and I can only share this moment of pain with him.
      “But I know that Harry is strong and that this hurt will pass for him.”
      England crashed out despite winning tactical battle
      England have crashed out of the World Cup yet again in devastating fashion, losing to reigning champions France.
      Harry Kane will go to bed with nightmares of his late penalty miss after previously converting which would have put the game level once more.
      Gareth Southgate’s side were defeated 2-1 but for much of the match England were the better team – so what went wrong?
      Many were critical of England and Southgate or struggling to come out on top in big games, especially on the grandest stage at the World Cup.
      Defeat to Les Blues didn’t help to silence critics and now supporters are further divided over the future of the Three Lions manager.
      England were unfortunate not to progress into the semi-finals, but tournament football can be cruel and takes no prisoners.
      SunSport takes you through the three key tactical details where this quarter-final was won and lost between the two European titans – and one player who made the difference.
      Ronaldo breaks silence after World Cup exit
      Cristiano Ronaldo posted an emotional statement after his “biggest and most ambitious dream” of winning a World Cup ended.
      Ronaldo, who is currently a free agent after being sacked by Manchester United, will be 42 by the time the next World Cup kicks off.
      It is unknown whether he will play on until then.
      Ron wrote on Instagram this afternoon: “Winning a World Cup for Portugal was the biggest and most ambitious dream of my career. 

      “Fortunately, I won many titles of international dimension, including for Portugal, but putting the name of our country on the highest level in the world was my biggest dream.
      “I fought for it. I fought hard for this dream. In the 5 appearances that I scored in World Cups over 16 years, always alongside great players and supported by millions of Portuguese people, I gave my all. 
      “I left everything on the field. I never turned my face to the fight and I never gave up on that dream.
      “Unfortunately, yesterday the dream ended. It is not worth reacting to heat.”
      ‘Thank you for the unconditional support’, says Rashford
      Rashford wrote on Twitter: “The last few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions, each and every one of our team gave everything we had to be ready for what was thrown at us, we got close, but not close enough.
      “I’ll make a promise that we will come again!
      “Thank you for the unconditional support.”
      Rashford has enjoyed a resurgence this season for the Red Devils after a difficult last campaign.
      The forward carried that form with him into the World Cup, although the 3-0 win over Wales in the final group game was his only start of the tournament.
      Rashford vows to come back stronger
      Marcus Rashford has vowed England “will come again” after last night’s World Cup heartbreak.
      The Manchester United ace came off the bench as the Three Lions went down 2-1 to reigning champions France in the quarter-finals.
      Rashford replaced Phil Foden for the final five minutes, and came close to scoring a stunning equaliser with a free-kick that skimmed the roof of the net in stoppage time.
      The 25-year-old was superb in Qatar, and was the Three Lions’ joint top scorer with Bukayo Saka on three goals.
      Taking to social media the morning after the defeat, Rashford thanked fans for their support and vowed that England will return better than ever.

      Pickford and Trippier protect Kane
      Jordan Pickford ushered away a camera operator as they tried to film Harry Kane’s penalty agony.
      The England captain missed a late spot-kick to equalise in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against France.

      It saw the defending champs cling on for a 2-1 win, setting up a semi-final against Morocco.
      And devastated England players, including Kane, were overcome with emotion at the final whistle.
      One camera operator decided to get a close-up of skipper Kane, who scored a penalty earlier on, as he leaned on his haunches with his head in his hands.
      But teammate Pickford was having none of it as he and Kieran Trippier blocked the view.
      Rice reveals Southgate’s post-game team talk
      Rice, 23, who has 39 caps, delivered a strong midfield performance against France after a difficult start.
      Asked about what Southgate said to the players afterwards, he said: “He was so proud of us as a group because of how we’ve been, how we’ve applied ourselves to the last month and what we’ve given in training sessions. Some of the lads that haven’t even had a minute, every day around the group.
      “Against France, he got everything spot on again. It’s not on him. It’s not on him at all – the tactics were right, we played the right way.
      “I think you can see on my face right now that I’m distraught because we really believed this year that it could be a year.”
      England fans gutted but still ‘proud’
      Devastated England fans last night drowned their sorrows after the Three Lions lost a nail-biting World Cup quarter-final 2-1 to France.
      England battled hard in the second half but heartbroken Harry Kane hit his second penalty of the night over the bar – and with it missed a golden late chance to draw the Three Lions level again.

      John Andrews, 39, who watched in Bristol, said: “We didn’t deserve to lose and should have had a penalty in the first half. 
      “I couldn’t believe some of the decisions the ref gave. I’m gutted.” 
      Gemma Wilson, 32, from Bristol, said: “I really thought Rashford’s free-kick was in. 
      “We deserved to get more out of the game. France were lucky. I’m so proud of the team.”
      Arts practitioner Andrew Walker, 26,  who watched in Newcastle, said: “I’m proud of the team. I think the penalty that Harry Kane missed was just down to pressure.
      “Losing to France is no disgrace, they are the World Champions at the end of the day.”
      Saka’s top performance
      Notoriously tough-scoring French newspaper L’Equipe gave Bukayo Saka a higher match rating than Kylian Mbappe in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final.
      England winger Saka was superb throughout the 2-1 defeat – and scored a seven out of ten from L’Equipe.

      Mbappe on the other hand was given a five, with right-back Kyle Walker doing well to keep the shackles on the France dangerman.
      But, despite Saka’s score, he wasn’t Player of the Match in the eyes of the French newspaper.
      Instead that honour went to France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.
      The captain was given an eight out of ten, higher than anyone else on the pitch.
      ‘Negativity’ will go away once we win something, says Rice
      Rice added: “We weren’t overly-confident over here but we were confident enough that we really could win this tournament and that is not the mentality England have had over the years.
      “I think we’ve handled it so well, if you look at the squad we are so young, but we’ve got so many top players.
      “We’ve got to a semi-final, Euros final, obviously crashed out here at a quarter-final but in my opinion the better team lost and that shows how far we have come.
      “I think sometimes the negativity surrounding us will go away once we have won something again.
      “I think there will always be that pressure on us but I feel like it’s starting to sway that way that we’re getting back to a level where people are believing in us and the country is backing us.
      “A few years ago, it wasn’t like that. So we can be really proud of ourselves as a group. But we need to go again because ultimately, international football is based on what you win, we haven’t won for years so that is what we want to try and do.”
      Rice wants Southgate reign to continue
      Declan Rice reckons the “negativity” surrounding England will only disappear once the Three Lions actually win something.
      Yet with the next major tournament in Germany just 19 months away, the West Ham midfielder is desperate for Gareth Southgate to stay as manager.
      England’s next game is on March 23 2023 and a trip to Naples to face Italy in a Euro2024 qualifier.
      Rice said: “We’ve come so far. I think that’s credit to the manager, the spirit that he’s brought to this team and togetherness that we’ve got. Personally, I hope he stays.
      “There’s a lot of talk around the manager. I think he’s been brilliant for us. I think there’s a lot of criticism that’s not deserved. I think he’s taken us so, so far. Further than what people expected.
      “I really hope he stays because of the core group that we’ve got and what he’s made for us. It’s so special to be a part of, I love playing under him and I love playing for England.

      ‘Justice’ was served, says Rabiot
      France midfielder Adrien Rabiot has bizarrely claimed “justice” was served when Harry Kane missed his second penalty.
      The world champions saw off Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions with a 2-1 victory in the World Cup quarter-finals.
      With six minutes left on the clock, England were handed the chance to draw level, again from the penalty spot.
      Theo Hernandez went through the back of Mason Mount but it took for VAR to intervene for the spot-kick to be awarded.
      This time, Kane made a mess of his effort and sent his shot flying over the crossbar.
      Such an outcome was “justice”, according to France ace Rabiot, who says “hundreds of actions” similar aren’t awarded.
      The Juventus man said: “First of all, I’m not sure that it’s really a foul.
      “We’ve seen hundreds of actions like that that aren’t given.
      “Of course, when he’s missed, we were happy, it was justice because there was no penalty.”
      Lineker claims England’s time will come
      England legend Gary Lineker is convinced this current generation of young stars will lead the nation to glory.
      He tweeted his support of the Three Lions stars.
      The former striker wrote: “Heartbreaking once again, but no shame in losing to an excellent French team and congratulations to them.
      “There was so little to choose between the two sides. This fine young @England team gave their all and will only get better.
      “Their time will come.”
      Their time will come.Gary Lineker
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      in Soccer

      Fifa launch new World Cup ball for semi-finals and final, just hours after Harry Kane blasts England penalty over bar

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      FIFA have revealed their new World Cup ball for the semis and finals.The “Al Hilm” ball – which translates to “The Dream” in Arabic – replaces Al Rihla – “The Journey”.
      Fifa have revealed their new World Cup ball for the semis and finals
      Lionel Messi’s Argentina, who beat Netherlands, will be the first to use the new ball against Croatia on Tuesday night.
      A day later, reigning champions France face Morocco following their dramatic win over England.
      In a match played with the old ball – Al Rihla – Harry Kane levelled from the penalty spot but missed a second spot kick as he blazed over the bar.
      That miss meant England went down to a 2-1 defeat as Kane broke his silence on the penalty heartbreak.
      READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS
      He posted online: “Absolutely gutted. We’ve given it everything and it’s come down to a small detail which I take responsibility for.
      “There’s no hiding from it, it hurts and it’ll take some time to get over it but that’s part of sport.
      “Now it’s about using the experience to be mentally and physically stronger for the next challenge.
      “Thanks for all the support throughout the tournament – it means a lot.”
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      Southgate backed his skipper, and said: “For me, we win and lose as a team.
      “We have let a couple of goals in and missed a few chances.
      “He has been incredible for us and is so reliable for us in those situations.
      “We wouldn’t be here but for the number of goals he has scored for us.”
      Though the ball is unlikely to have had any impact on Kane’s second penalty, it did cause the game against France to be stopped after less than a minute.
      This happened when Harry Maguire realised it had gone flat and booted it out of play in order for a replacement to be thrown onto the pitch.
      Harry Kane missing from the penalty spotCredit: Rex More