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      World Cup 2022 LIVE: Kyle Walker OUT of first England game, Ronaldo misses training with stomach bug, Nkunku RULED OUT

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      ENGLAND will be missing Kyle Walker for their first World Cup game against Iran next week. Walker is recovering from a groin injury but has declared himself fit for the second game against USA.
      England are scheduled to play Iran in their opening fixture on Monday, November 21.
      Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo will miss Portugal’s friendly game with Nigeria on Thursday as he has a stomach bug.
      And France have confirmed that Christopher Nkunku has been ruled out of the World Cup following Eduardo Camavinga’s reckless tackle in training.
       Bet £10 on Golden Boot winner and get £2 FREE BET each time they score or assist
      Stay tuned with all the latest ahead of the tournament…
      Van Gaal confuses fans with squad numbers
      Louis van Gaal has claimed Holland’s World Cup squad numbers have been assigned by age.
      But a closer look at the squad shows a random allocation with no method to the madness.
      Ajax’s 39-year-old goalkeeper Remko Pasveer is the oldest player in the squad and he takes the number one jersey.
      But Jurrien Timber, 21, is number two and only one midfielder takes one of the first eleven numbers – Steven Berghuis.
      Senior players such as Denzel Dumfries and Daley Blind are numbered 22 and 17 respectively.
      While Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong takes his favoured number 21 shirt – the number he has worn his entire career.
      More from Hoddle
      Glenn Hoddle also went on to praise James Maddison’s inclusion, but preached caution when it comes to Kalvin Phillips.
      He said: “I’m glad to see Maddison’s in — he’s in great form and I would like to see him start.
      “I think he’s that good and he hasn’t been given a chance yet with England, and he and Foden would be something special.
      “The one doubt I have — not because of his ability because I quite like him and he had a really good Euros — is Kalvin Phillips.
      “Shoulder injuries are very difficult ones to know whether they’re absolutely okay.”
      Credit: Getty
      Hoddle predicts Southgate will drop Maguire
      Former England boss Glenn Hoddle has predicted that Harry Maguire will be dropped for England’s opening game in Qatar.
      Hoddle told the Mail: “I can understand why he’s put Maguire in [the squad].
      “I don’t think Maguire will start, but he might if Southgate wants to go into a three [at the back]. I can see Southgate using him, if needs be, later in the tournament.
      “Maguire would love to start the game against Iran but if he was thrown in, there’d be little doubt in the back of his mind.”
      Garnacho to still make Argentina squad?
      Manchester United fans have all said the same thing as Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni hinted additional changes may be made to his squad.
      Alejandro Garnacho has been hailed as the Red Devils’ saviour in recent weeks.
      The 18-year-old scored a stoppage-time winner in the 2-1 victory over Fulham last weekend.
      And now fans of the Old Trafford club think that he should get a look in on the world stage in Qatar.
      Scaloni revealed: “There’s a possibility that our 26-man list for the World Cup could change. Let’s see.
      “There are players who are not 100% well. We want to be cautious. We want to see their evolution.”
      Top 10 oldest players at 2022 World Cup
      Cristiano Ronaldo is only the seventh oldest player at this year’s World Cup.
      The Manchester United man is nearly 38 years of age… but he still has some way to go to become the eldest star in Qatar this month.

      Four days until the World Cup
      A reminder that we are now just FOUR DAYS away from the start of the World Cup.
      Hosts Qatar face Ecuador in the opening game on Sunday at 4pm BST.
      That is followed by THREE matches on Monday – England vs Iran, Senegal vs Netherlands and USA vs Wales.
      Williams hails Bale ahead of Wales’ meeting with England
      Gareth Bale is the best Britain has to offer, according to team-mate Jonny Williams.
      Wales kick off their tournament against USA on Monday before facing Gareth Southgate’s side on November 29.
      And the Swindon midfielder told SunSport, via SkyBet, that they are well equipped to take on the best on the globe.
      He said: “Bale’s achievements and career speak for itself. The important goals in big finals, he’s a five-time Champions League winner, and what he’s done for Wales since coming into the senior team.
      “I think he’s probably the best British player of all time. I can’t speak highly enough of him as a player and a person, so down to earth, a pleasure to play alongside.
      “Even when I was kid coming through and he is the same now, you can’t always say that about players.
      “It is a credit to him and amazing to see what he did in America, but I am not surprised. He is a winner, a big game player and he always turns up.”
      England fans choose their starting XI
      England’s starting XI for the World Cup has been a major talking point since the end of the Euros.
      But with just a few days to go before the tournament begins, we asked you to tell us your best Three Lions XI for World Cup 2022.
      There were some shock inclusions in the team as well as some no-brainers.
      And now we will reveal who you want Gareth Southgate to start at the World Cup.
      So first of all a quick caveat, we’re going with Southgate’s favourite 5-2-3 – or 3-4-3 depending on how you look at it…

      Haaland names England among World Cup favourites
      Erling Haaland has named England as favourites to win the World Cup.
      But Manchester City’s latest cult hero reckons three other giants are also in the mix for footy’s top prize.
      Haaland declared: “Favourites? I think the favourites should be Brazil, Argentina, France and maybe England.
      “I cannot say only one because there’s so many good teams. So yeah, those four.”
      Maddison late for presser due to darts competition
      James Maddison was late for his first England press conference as he was busy playing darts.
      The Leicester star took on a member of the media as he left other reporters waiting patiently for his arrival.
      Maddison, 25, was all smiles as he tested his skills.
      He appears to be an avid darts fan having performed a darts celebration after scoring against Nottingham Forest last month.
      It will be interesting to see how he compares to his new England team-mates, who frequently played darts on their journey to the Euro 2020 final last year.
      Toney charged with 232 breaches of betting rules
      Ivan Toney has been charged with 232 breaches of FA betting rules.
      The news comes just days after the Brentford striker missed out on Gareth Southgate’s 26-man England World Cup squad.
      In a statement, the FA confirmed: “Ivan Toney has been charged with misconduct in relation to alleged breached of the FA’s betting rules.
      “It is alleged that the Brentford FC forward breached FA Rule E8 232 times between 25 February 2017 and 23 January 2021.
      “Ivan Toney has until Thursday 24 November 2022 to provide a response.”
      Credit: PA
      Walker OUT of England’s World Cup opener
      Kyle Walker has ruled himself OUT of England’s World Cup opener against Iran.
      Gareth Southgate selected the Manchester City star in his 26-man squad for Qatar, despite him having not played for his club since October 2.
      Walker, 32, gave his manager a boost by taking part in England training today.
      The defender took part in a session at the Al Wakrah SC Stadium – where temperatures reached 32C on Wednesday.
      But the opener vs Iran next Monday will come too soon for the full-back, according to Sky Sports.
      Walker himself claims, however, that he will “raring to go” for their next matches.
      The Three Lions take on the USA on Friday, 25 November, before a Battle of Britain tussle with Wales on Tuesday, 29 November.

      Neymar names favourite two England players
      Jadon Sancho has been described as “incredible” by Neymar despite not making Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad.
      The Brazilian superstar revealed his two favourite England players and the Manchester United winger was one of them.
      Hot shot Harry Kane – who captains the side bidding to win World Cup for first time in 56 years – was the other.
      Yet the 30-year-old forgot about the Three Lions when discussing who he thinks will lift the trophy.
      Neymar told The Telegraph: “I believe the favourites are Argentina, Germany, Spain, and France. I think those four along with Brazil are fully capable of reaching the final.
      “I really forgot about England but obviously they have a chance! I really like Kane and Sancho. They’re two incredible players and I have a special love for them because I like players that have their qualities.”
      Maguire achieved more than Terry and Ferdinand for England – O’Hara
      Harry Maguire has “achieved MORE” for England than either John Terry or Rio Ferdinand.
      That’s according to Jamie O’Hara, who is backing the Manchester United captain to make a lasting impact at the Qatar World Cup.
      Speaking on TalkSport, fellow pundit Jason Cundy asked O’Hara: “When was the last time we [England] had a top, top, top class centre-half?”
      O’Hara responded: “They got to the European final and the World Cup semi-final. Harry Maguire has been in the team of the tournament in the World Cup and the Euros.”
      Cundy then said: “But you can’t put him in the same bracket as John Terry and Rio Ferdinand.”
      O’Hara then retorted: “No you can’t at club level, but why can’t you at international level? He has achieved more than what they’ve done. Harry Maguire has achieved more than Rio Ferdinand and John Terry at international level.”
      Ronaldo misses Portugal training
      Cristiano Ronaldo has suffered a World Cup scare after coming down with illness.
      The Portuguese star, 37, is currently with the national team in Lisbon preparing for the showpiece in Qatar.
      However, he will miss their training session tonight as he is currently suffering with a stomach bug.
      Portugal take on Nigeria in their capital city tomorrow in their final friendly before the tournament in the Middle East.
      They begin their Group H campaign next Thursday against Ghana before then facing Uruguay and South Korea.
      Alves “babysitting” Neymar at World Cup
      Dani Alves was only included in Brazil’s World Cup squad to babysit Neymar, according to reports.
      The right-back, 39, was a surprise inclusion given he is approaching the end of his career.
      He could not cut it at the top level at Barcelona last season and was subsequently released by the Catalan club before joining Mexican side UNAM.
      But Alves is going to the World Cup and he will stay play a valuable role in the squad.
      According to Diario Sport, Alves will act as a kind of babysitter for Neymar.
      And their close relationship means Alves is one of only two players in the squad who is able to assert authority and discipline over the forward.
      Brazil captain Thiago Silva also has that privilege while PSG skipper Marquinhos also has some influence over Neymar.
      Walker trains with rest of England squad
      England have been handed a huge World Cup boost as Kyle Walker took part in a full training session.
      The opening group game against Iran is under a week away as the Qatar tournament edges closer.
      Walker was one of multiple players who came into the England squad with questions marks hanging over their fitness.
      But new pics show the defender taking part in a squad training at the Al Wakrah SC Stadium – where temperatures reached 32C on Wednesday – ahead of the opening game.
      The 32-year-old missed much of the first-half of the domestic season due to a groin issue.
      But the encouraging training pics suggest the Manchester City ace could be ready to go from the opening match.

      Free booze for World Cup
      Football fans are being offered free booze during the World Cup – here’s how to get yours delivered.
      Lucky punters could win free pints with the VoucherCodes On Tap ale-mergency beer delivery unit when England take on Iran at 1pm on Monday, November 21.
      With many at work on the day, the company will hand out free Wolfpack pints to those in London who strike it lucky.
      It comes as the total number of pints sold is expected to reach 65.3 million over the course of this year’s tournament – down 26.7 million compared to 2018.
      Ex-England and Arsenal legend, Ray Parlour, who has teamed up with VoucherCodes for its On Tap service, said: “Fans love to get behind the Three Lions and enjoy a drink or two while watching the game.
      “But rising costs are taking their toll, and this tournament is going to feel different to the rest, not least with our first game kicking off on a Monday lunchtime whilst many people are at work.
      “So I think it’s a great idea that fans can now request for the VoucherCodes On Tap service to stop by their office with free pints – let’s beer it for the Three Lions!”
      Back to business
      Cristiano Ronaldo returned to the training pitch for the first time since interview with Piers Morgan.
      The 37-year-old missed Manchester United’s final two games before the break through illness, but it was back down to business today.
      Ronaldo could win international cap 192 when Portugal play Nigeria on Thursday.
      Credit: Getty
      Start Maddison – Hoddle
      Former England manager Glenn Hoddle advised current boss Gareth Southgate to start Leicester star James Maddison.
      Hoddle added: “I’m glad to see Maddison’s in — he’s in great form and I would like to see him start.
      “I think he’s that good and he hasn’t been given a chance yet with England, and he and [Phil] Foden would be something special.
      “The one doubt I have — not because of his ability because I quite like him and he had a really good Euros — is Kalvin Phillips.
      “Shoulder injuries are very difficult ones to know whether they’re absolutely okay”
      Can’t defend him
      Former England manager Glenn Hoddle has predicted that Harry Maguire will be dropped for the Three Lions’ opening game in Qatar.
      Hoddle told the Mail: “I can understand why he’s put Maguire in [the squad].
      “I don’t think Maguire will start, but he might if Southgate wants to go into a three [at the back]. I can see Southgate using him, if needs be, later in the tournament
      “Maguire would love to start the game against Iran but if he was thrown in, there’d be a little doubt in the back of his mind”
      Van Dijk on Mane
      Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk has reached out to former team-mate and Bayern Munich superstar Sadio Mane ahead of the Netherlands’ clash with Senegal.
      Mane seems certain to miss out on his country’s World Cup opener against Holland.
      Van Dijk said: “I don’t think he will play, but Senegal have a fantastic team.
      “Of course [I have spoken to him]. I was feeling sad for him, first and foremost. I’m not happy in this case and I’ve been in that situation where I missed the Euros. We as players work so hard to get to this stage and he has been such an important figure for his country.
      “I know for a fact that he will put a brave face on it, but it’s tough and I feel sorry for him. I just want to tell him that whether he plays or not, it’s going to be such a tough game”
      Credit: Reuters
      England top financial charts
      England have the most valuable squad in the World Cup with a whopping combined transfer-fee value of just over £1.1 billion, figures from Online Casinos reveal.
      Brazil come in second place in the most valuable stakes, with slightly over £1 billion in player-transfer value.
      The Selecao are followed by defending world champions France at £950,600 and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal with more than £824,500 in net worth per collective player-transfer fees.
      In fifth spot are Spain, at over £793,760, Germany are placed sixth, with more than £793,760 in total player value and Argentina are seventh, at £557,216.
      The Netherlands (£516,780), Belgium (£495,616) and Uruguay (£395,736) round out the top 10.
      The national team in oil-rich Qatar scores the worst in terms of player-transfer fees, at a paltry £13,112 in combined value
      Mane’s Sad times
      Bayern Munich star and Liverpool legend Sadio Mane looks certain to miss Senegal’s 2022 World Cup opener against the Netherlands on Monday.
      Mane has been dealing with a leg tendon injury sustained on November 7 and won’t be facing former Reds’ team-mate Virgil van Dijk in Qatar.
      The winger was passed fit to travel with his country for the tournament but he looks set to miss out against Louis van Gaal’s side.
      However, the 30-year-old is still expected to compete in the group stages
      Young on England
      Former Manchester United ace Ashley Young is convinced England can win the World Cup — and has urged the country to get behind manager Gareth Southgate as well as the players.
      Young told SunSport’s Charlie Wyett: “There is something special coming from this England team. The country has to get behind them. Get behind every single player. Don’t single them out. Get behind all of them to go out and win this tournament.
      “From the time Gareth has taken over, he has made a difference. These players will be more than ready. With the way the Euros went, I give us every chance of going to the tournament and winning it.
      “The criticism Gareth Southgate is getting is absolutely ridiculous. It is bulls**t. Because he has not taken a team into the latest final of the Nations League, people think that he should be criticised.
      “Of course, going into a tournament you want to be winning games. But Gareth has totally changed what it is like to be with England.
      “In previous years, under other managers when I was there, players were pulling out because they did not enjoy it. They were not injured. Gareth has managed to get the nation together”
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      Underworld crooks who stole the 1966 World Cup finally unmasked – but did Britain’s most powerful men let them off?

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      THE two villains suspected of masterminding the theft of the World Cup in 1966 have remained under the radar for 56 years.But as Gareth Southgate and his England squad prepare to bring it home again, The Sun unmasks the crooks who attempted one of the past century’s most notorious thefts.
      England captain Bobby Moore holds the Jules Rimet World Cup trophy as he sits on his teammate’s shouldersCredit: Popperfoto – Getty
      Thief Edward Betchley was the only man convincted over the break-inCredit: Supplied
      Underworld fence Bernard ‘The Pole’ MakowskiCredit: Supplied
      We can reveal how crooked Hatton Garden diamond dealer Gerald Sattin and underworld fence Bernard “The Pole” Makowski were strongly suspected of being architects of the plot to steal the Jules Rimet trophy.
      Our investigations also expose how the pair — both now dead — escaped scot free after an apparent Downing Street deal to retrieve the cup.
      Historic confidential police intelligence documents list both men as associates of Edward Betchley, the only one of the three to be convicted of the theft of the cup from a display case at an exhibition in London.
      The files reveal a witness saw Sattin, then 34, at the exhibition at Westminster’s Methodist Central Hall.
      Read More on The Sun
      The witness, a solicitor who asked for anonymity, urged police “to make as full an investigation into this line of inquiry as I believe this to be more than a coincidence”.
      Professional thief Betchley, also now dead, was arrested four days after the theft following a ransom attempt — but the cup remained missing.
      Betchley told police he was acting on behalf of a man he knew only by the nickname The Pole.
      A Scotland Yard index of nicknames turned up Warsaw-born Makowski, then 40.
      Most read in Football
      The World Cup remained missing for a week until it was found in a South London hedge by a dog called Pickles — and England went on to win it in July that year.
      We can now reveal that before Pickles became an unlikely hero, a deal was hatched for the trophy’s return, backed by Downing Street.
      It led to charges being reduced against Betchley and no action being taken against Sattin and Makowski.
      A previously undisclosed document in Betchley’s police file reveals how Michael Halls, Principal Private Secretary to PM Harold Wilson, contacted the Director of Public Prosecutions over the case.
      Former Scotland Yard Flying Squad commander John O’Connor said last night: “There was clearly a deal with the DPP, police and Betchley to get the cup back.
      “But this document strongly suggests for the first time that it was done at the behest of Harold Wilson.
      “He wouldn’t get his hands dirty, but he would let his secretary do exactly that. It was skulduggery but it was also in the public interest to get the cup back.
      “It was even more important for Wilson, as it was days away from the General Election. Finding the cup could well have affected the outcome of the election.”
      ‘It was skulduggery’
      The 14in, gold-plated Jules Rimet trophy of the winged goddess Nike had arrived in London under tight security on January 5, 1966.
      The following day it was on display at the live TV screening of the tournament draw in West London.
      Two officials from previous winners Brazil handed the cup to Fifa president Sir Stanley Rous, who quipped: “Whether they leave it here permanently or just temporarily will be seen in July.”
      His words came back to haunt him when it was stolen on March 20.
      The FA had loaned it to stamp company Stanley Gibbons for an exhibition.
      The show was closed on the Sunday of the theft but the building was open for Methodist services.
      Gerald Sattin and girlfriend Maureen Flanagan in Las Vegas in the early 1970sCredit: Supplied
      Thames boatman David Corbett with Pickles, the collie who found the newspaper-wrapped cup under a bush in his owner’s front garden in South LondonCredit: PA:Press Association
      Two thieves broke into the first-floor hall, where the cup was on display, and the theft was discovered just after noon.
      With 11 days until the General Election, Harold Wilson, who believed a successful World Cup tournament could rescue the ailing Pound, told Home Secretary Roy Jenkins to call in the Yard’s top brass.
      Files reveal Jenkins spoke to then Met commissioner Sir Joseph Simpson and Commander Ernie Millen, who put his best thief-taker on the case, Tommy Butler, Scourge of the Great Train Robbers.
      There were two witnesses. Churchgoing Margaret Coombes spotted Betchley on the first floor at 11am and picked him out at an identity parade following his arrest.
      One of the guards, Frank Hudson, spotted a second man loitering near where the World Cup was on display.
      The suspect was never traced, though his description bore a striking resemblance to Makowski.
      The next day, the solicitor witness, who The Sun is not naming, came forward to say he had spoken to Sattin at the exhibition.
      Files show married father-of-three Sattin was questioned by police and admitted being at the exhibition.
      Sattin had a taste for high living, glamorous women, luxury cars and crime.
      Five years after the World Cup theft he began an 18-month affair with former Sun Page 3 model Maureen Flanagan.
      Now 81, Maureen said: “I knew nothing about him being involved with stealing the World Cup. He wasn’t even a football fan.
      “After we split up he was jailed for fraud and he had been to prison before he met me but it was not something he ever spoke about. All I’d say is that if you met him you’d trust him with the world — if not the World Cup.”
      As police questioned Sattin they were already moving in on Betchley, a known associate of his, who had anonymously called FA chief Joe Mears the day after the theft.
      He promised to send a parcel that would “be of interest”.
      England manager Sir Alf Ramsay, captain Bobby Moore and teammates at a lunch the day after they won the trophyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Two days later the lid of the World Cup was delivered with a typed ransom demand for £15,000 — around £300,000 now — for its return.
      Mears rang the police and Detective Inspector Jack Buggy posed as his assistant and spoke twice to the crook by phone.
      Investigators traced the second call to a phone box near Betchley’s South London home.
      DI Buggy met the crook — Betchley — at Battersea Park and showed him “bundles of cash” in a briefcase — though it was mostly scraps of paper.
      Former soldier and dock labourer Betchley, 47, got in DI Buggy’s car and told him to drive, but in Camberwell he got spooked and ran. He was quickly captured by Buggy.
      A search for the cup at his home proved fruitless and raids on the nearby Camberwell homes of two associates, brothers Sidney and Reginald Cugullere, drew a blank.
      Relatives later said the brothers had hidden the cup in a coal shed.
      Betchley denied two charges of theft and also demanding money with menaces.
      He told police he had been offered £500 to act as an intermediary by “The Pole”, calling the nameless figure “one of his customers”.
      Two days after his arrest, magistrates bailed Betchley on a surety of £5,000, worth £100k today.
      The next day Pickles found the World Cup wrapped in newspaper in the front garden of a house in Beulah Hill, Upper Norwood, South London.
      His owner, Thames barge worker David Corbett, lived in a flat at the address.
      He went on to claim £6,000 in insurance rewards — six times the amount England’s players each received for winning the cup.
      A memo marked “confidential” and obtained by The Sun casts a further cloud of mystery around the case.
      The empty display where the cup had been keptCredit: PA:Press Association
      Thieves removed eight screws from a door to get into the exhibition hallCredit: PA
      It stated that Harold Wilson’s PPS Michael Halls asked that an unspecified matter “be given immediate consideration . . . ” and added that it was being copied to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
      Then on April 12, just over a fortnight after the cup was found, the more serious offences of theft were dropped against Betchley, despite a wealth of evidence against him.
      He later admitted two counts of demanding money with menaces and was jailed for two years.
      Police took no further action in the case.
      Ex-Flying Squad chief Mr O’Connor said: “This new information strongly suggests Sattin, Makowski, Betchley the thief and other associates were all in it together.
      “Sattin planned it and used Betchley as a professional thief, probably by going through Makowski. It was a murky old world in those days and it doesn’t get much murkier than this.
      “There was clearly a deal with Betchley and the police agreed by the DPP and which went through Harold Wilson’s private secretary.
      “We were being embarrassed by these criminals in front of the world and they would have done anything to get the cup back. It would have soured the whole World Cup tournament if the trophy had not been found.”
      The trophy went back to Brazil in 1970 when they won the World Cup in Mexico.
      As three-times winners, they got to keep it permanently — though it was stolen again in 1983 and has never been found. Its replacement, the Fifa World Cup Trophy, has been awarded ever since.
      After it was pinched in London, a replica was commissioned from London silversmith George Bird, who was sworn to secrecy.
      The copy was sold at Sotheby’s to a mystery bidder in 1997 for £240,500 — almost 25 times its estimated value.
      Read More on The Sun
      It later emerged the bidder was a representative of the FA acting on behalf of Fifa, whose secretary Sepp Blatter authorised the purchase at any price.
      The copy was later given to the National Football Museum in Manchester, where it remains on display.
      Harold Wilson believed a successful World Cup tournament could rescue the ailing PoundCredit: Rex
      The 14in, gold-plated Jules Rimet trophy of the winged goddess Nike arrived in London under tight security on January 5, 1966Credit: PA:Empics Sport More

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      I’ve spent thousands on my epic football shirt collection… I’ve got 500 kits & wore one every day in time for World Cup

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      A FOOTBALL fanatic who has spent thousands on his epic shirt collection has worn a different one every day for a YEAR in the run up to the World Cup.Antonio Massari, 36, has scoured the world to bag kits from the biggest clubs to obscure local ones, totting up a tidy 500 tops.
      Footie-mad Antonio Massari has accumulated more than 500 shirts from around the worldCredit: SWNS
      The 36-year-old challenged himself to wear a different kit each day before the 2022 World CupCredit: SWNS
      He even donned a 2009 Wales jersey on Christmas Day to fulfill his promiseCredit: SWNS
      The superfan has splashed out over £10,000 on his ever-expanding wardrobe to ensure he can sport a footie shirt every day.
      He has dedicated his life and his fashion sense to the beautiful game, but decided to take it up a notch ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
      The dedicated fan even wore one a shirt on Christmas Day — a 2009 Wales jersey – to fulfill his football kit fantasy.
      Antonio challenged himself to don a different shirt each day for one whole year and completed his barmy quest in October.
      READ MORE ON FOOTIE FANS
      It left the Portsmouth and Inter Milan fan with plenty of time to relax ahead of the kick-off in Qatar on November 20.
      The 36-year-old has vowed to keep himself glued to his TV at his home in Portsmouth, Hampshire, for the entirety of the tournament.
      But the Italian admitted he is already missing wearing his beloved shirts after switching back to his ordinary attire.
      Antonio explained: “When I first started my challenge I didn’t consider it would finish near the World Cup.
      Most read in The Sun
      “But I realised it fits really well. I will definitely be following and watching every single game.
      “The tournaments are the best thing – you get to watch lots of different teams and discover new players.
      “Now I’ve finished that challenge I’m back to wearing normal t-shirts and it feels weird to not wear a football shirt.
      “I’m already thinking of what challenge to set myself next – after the World Cup, of course.”
      To celebrate completing his challenge, which he documented on his Instagram account @365footballshirts, he marked the final day by wearing a particularly special shirt.
      He proudly donned an AC Milan Women’s shirt which was given to him by a close pal after she wore it in her final match before she retired from the sport.
      Antonio gushed: “It’s important to recognise women’s teams are good too.
      “I love football shirts because I think they are beautiful, colourful – sometimes even elegant.
      They all have stories – it’s not just a piece of clothing.Antonio Massari
      “They represent a country, or a city, or a category of people – they all have different meanings.
      “They all have stories – it’s not just a piece of clothing.”
      Antonio first began collecting football shirts as a kid after receiving them as gifts for birthdays and Christmas.
      It kickstarted his obsession for stockpiling kits from all over the world which has now snowballed into adulthood.
      He hunts down unique or discontinued jerseys in numerous different ways – such as trawling through charity shops and collectors stores – in over 100 different countries.
      Antonio continued: “I love football but I like football shirts even more than the game itself.
      “A lot of people collect shirts but what they don’t do is wear them – I want to change that.
      “Now I have so many, it’s difficult to find a shirt for a team I don’t already have.”
      As he gears up to watch the first game this Sunday, when host nation Qatar take on Ecuador, Antonio’s love for the game remains as strong as ever.
      Read More on The Sun
      He added: “I’ll watch every single game wherever I can. Football is just the best thing.
      “Even matches where I don’t support either team – I love that I can watch it with an unbiased mentality and still enjoy it.”
      The 36-year-old started collecting football shirts as a childCredit: SWNS
      Antonio sporting his beloved Portsmouth shirt which he bought after the south coast side won the FA Cup in the 2007/08 seasonCredit: SWNS
      The Italian intends to watch every single game during the World CupCredit: SWNS More

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      Man Utd fans all say the same thing as Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni says World Cup squad ‘could still change’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans are all saying the same thing after Lionel Scaloni hinted that additional changes may still be made to the Argentina squad.Alejandro Garnacho has been hailed as the Red Devils’ saviour in recent weeks.
      Scaloni reckons his Argentina World Cup squad could still changeCredit: EPA
      Garnacho has been on red-hot form for Man Utd and fans think there’s a possibility he could be called upCredit: Rex
      The 18-year-old scored a stoppage-time winner in the 2-1 victory over Fulham last weekend.
      And now fans of the Old Trafford club think that he should get a look in on the World stage in Qatar – despite never winning a full cap.
      Scaloni revealed: “There’s a possibility that our 26-man list for the World Cup could change. Let’s see.
      “There are players who are not 100 per cent well. We want to be cautious. We want to see their evolution”.
      READ MORE ON ARGENTINA
      And this got supporters of the youngster very excited.
      Social media was awash with comments on who the Argentines could call up.
      A user exclaimed: “Bring on GARNACHO!”
      One United fan wrote: “Time to bring my starboy on board. Gonna cook this WC.”
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      Another agreed: “Tell me you want to add Garnacho without saying it directly.”
      Hundreds of photos and gifs of the winger followed the comments.
      Fans are also ordering the club to tie Garnacho to a new long-term contract after his late winner against Fulham.
      They are asking the Glazer ownership to splash out on a lucrative new deal for the in-form kid.
      He now has two goals and two assists in his last five matches across all competitions.
      Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano stated on Twitter that United are already working on a new and improved contract with Garnacho.
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      Romano claims that the Red Devils are trying to get the Argentina Under-20 international to put pen to paper “as soon as possible”.
      Garnacho’s current deal runs out in June, which means the Manchester giants will have to act fast. More

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      Top 10 oldest World Cup 2022 players with Cristiano Ronaldo 9th behind Portugal team-mate and Chelsea star

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO is on the bench again – after missing out on a six-a-side team of World Cup golden oldies.The unsettled Manchester United legend, 37, will only be the ninth oldest player at Qatar this winter – TWO YEARS short of the top six.
      Cristiano Ronaldo, 37, hopes to put his sensational Old Trafford saga behind him with glory in his World Cup swansong for PortugalCredit: Getty
      Thiago Silva is still shining for Chelsea at the age of 38Credit: AFP
      Two goalkeepers are in the leading five for age, spearheaded by Mexican Alfredo Talavera, 40.
      Five 39-year-olds will be there, including defensive icons Pepe and Dani Alves, plus Canada midfielder Atiba Hutchinson.
      Pepe’s Portugal team-mate Ronaldo is the only frontman in the top 10.
      And another modern-day great just squeezes into the list – Chelsea centre-back Thiago Silva.
      READ MORE WORLD CUP NEWS
      Cristiano Ronaldo will be the ninth oldest player at the 2022 World Cup, with evergreen team-mate Pepe in third
      England’s opening opponents Iran have the oldest squad, with eight players over 30  taking their average age up to 28.8 years.
      Next come Mexico, while Brazil and Argentina share third place on 27.9.
      Lionel Messi, 35, is a year younger than his oldest Argentinian colleague, keeper Franco Armani.
      And as for their South American neighbours, Alves and Silva are joined by seven other 30-plus stars in Brazil’s 26-man party.
      TOP 10 OLDEST STARS AT QATARHERE’S the lowdown on the most senior players in Qatar. But some have little experience at this level, especially Canadian midfielder and skipper Atiba Hutchinson.
      1 Alfredo Talavera (GK), 40 – Mexico2 Atiba Hutchinson, 39 – Canada3 Pepe, 39 – Portugal4 Eiji Kawashima (GK), 39 – Japan5 Dani Alves, 39 – Brazil6 Remko Pasveer (GK), 39 – Holland7 Aymen Mathlouthi (GK), 38 – Tunisia8 Thiago Silva, 38 – Brazil9 Cristiano Ronaldo, 37 – Portugal10 Danny Vukovic (GK), 37 – Australia

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      In fact, the Brazilians might well have had the oldest squad of all were it not for two of the most exciting young wingers in Europe.
      Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Arsenal’s table-topping trickster Gabriel Martinelli, both 21, have made Tite’s squad thanks to their finest season so far.
      In contrast, Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions hope to come of age with World Cup glory as one of the youngest squads – averaging just26 years and 153 days.
      That’s almost two decades younger than the oldest players ever to play at a World Cup finals.
      That honour fell to Egypt keeper Essam El Hadery, who was outstanding aged 45 years and 10 days old in a 2018 group match against Saudi Arabia, despite conceding a 95th minute winner. More

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      USA squad including Chelsea ace Christian Pulisic train with construction crew in Qatar ahead of World Cup 2022

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      USA stars including Christian Pulisic trained with a construction crew in Qatar on Monday.Gregg Berhalter’s side completed drills alongside beaming workers at Thani bin Jassim Stadium in Doha.
      USA stars complete drills with construction workersCredit: Reuters
      Christian Pulisic signs autographsCredit: Reuters
      The USA squad poses for a picture with a construction crewCredit: Reuters
      Amid controversy over Qatar’s treatment of migrant workers, USA stars enjoyed a kickabout with a stadium crew.
      They also signed autographs for them, with Chelsea star Pulisic a huge attraction.
      It is not clear how the photo opportunity came together – although Fifa urged all sides competing in Qatar to “let football take centre stage”.
      A statement co-authored by Fifa boss Gianni Infantino read: “Please, let’s now focus on the football!”
      READ MORE USA NEWS
      It went on to beg teams to “not allow football to be dragged into every ideological or political battle that exists”.
      In 2013, a report by The Guardian claimed that migrant workers were “denied food and water”.
      While there have been widespread reports accusing Qatar of taking their passports.
      The Middle Eastern country’s attitude towards human rights have also come under scrutiny – as well as their anti-LGBTQ+ laws.
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      Many national teams are planning to have their skipper wear a rainbow armband in Qatar.
      But France captain Hugo Lloris has hinted that he won’t.
      The Tottenham star said: “When we are in France, when we welcome foreigners, we often want them to follow our rules, to respect our culture, and I will do the same when I go to Qatar, quite simply.
      “I can agree or disagree with their ideas, but I have to show respect.”
      Hugo Lloris gives his thoughts ahead of the World CupCredit: AFP More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo’s interview slamming Man Utd hasn’t been distracting, insists Portugal boss Santos ahead of World Cup

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO’S explosive interview has not caused a distraction to Portugal’s World Cup preparations, insists boss Fernando Santos.The star, 37, has caused shockwaves at Old Trafford after a number of bombshells.
      Fernando Santos says the Cristiano Ronaldo saga is not distracting his Portugal squadCredit: AP
      He hit out at United for “betraying” him and making him feel like a “black sheep” as well as blaming him for everything going wrong at the club.
      The striker revealed he does not respect manager Erik ten Hag and blasted the club’s lack of progress since Sir Alex Ferguson left in 2013 – the last time they won the title.
      And he also claimed that the club “doubted” him after he informed them that the reason he arrived late of pre-season was because his baby daughter was in hospital through illness.
      Ronaldo’s club-mate and compatriot Bruno Fernandes appeared to give the legend a frosty reception as the pair met up for Portugal duty this week.
      READ MORE ON CRISTIANO RONALDO
      And when asked whether the ex-Real Madrid forward’s comments have had any impact on his team ahead of the World Cup, Santos was adamant they had nothing to do with the national team.
      He said: “The player decided to give an interview as many others have.
      “It’s a personal interview, very personal actually, and we have to respect that.
      “Isn’t Cristiano Ronaldo a free man?… It was his decision and we have to understand and respect it.
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      “The only thing we talk about is the preparation for Qatar. It (the interview) does not affect us at all.”
      Ronaldo missed training on Wednesday with a stomach bug and will not play in Thursday’s friendly with Nigeria in Lisbon before heading to Qatar.
      Santos added: “He is in his room resting and recovering.
      “He won’t practice and won’t be ready for tomorrow’s game either.”
      Portugal kick-off their World Cup campaign next Thursday against Ghana.
      They then face Uruguay and South Korea in Group H. More

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      Gareth Bale is the greatest British player of ALL-TIME, warns his Wales team-mate ahead of England World Cup showdown

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      GARETH BALE is the best Britain has to offer, according to international team-mate Jonny Williams.The winger also warned England that superstar Bale’s title success in America was the perfect warm-up for the World Cup.
      Williams warns group stage opponents England that Bale is the ‘best British player of all-time’Credit: PA
      Williams, 29, and the rest of the Wales squad flew out to Qatar on Tuesday to begin preparations.
      They kick off their tournament against USA on Monday before facing Gareth Southgate’s side on November 29.
      And the Swindon midfielder told SunSport, via SkyBet, that they are well equipped to take on the best on the globe.
      He said: “Bale’s achievements and career speak for itself. The important goals in big finals, he’s a five-time Champions League winner, and what he’s done for Wales since coming into the senior team.
      READ MORE ON WALES
      “I think he’s probably the best British player of all time.
      “I can’t speak highly enough of him as a player and a person, so down to earth, a pleasure to play alongside.
      “Even when I was kid coming through and he is the same now, you can’t always say that about players.
      “It is a credit to him and amazing to see what he did in America, but I am not surprised. He is a winner, a big game player and he always turns up.”
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      Bale scored a dramatic 127th-minute equaliser in the MLS final at the start of November.
      His LAFC side then won the shoot-out to send the 33-year-old to the Middle East with another piece of silverware for his mantelpiece.
      And Welsh fans will be dreaming of adding another, including Williams who believes the Dragons squad is better than the one that shocked everyone by reaching the Euro 2016 semi-final.
      In fact, he claims it’s the strongest since they last participated in a World Cup in 1958.
      He added: “Yeah, I’d have to say it is [the best team since they last qualified].
      “I remember the Wales teams of the past, Hughes, Rush, Davies, there have been some fantastic individuals. But I think as a collective, led by a world-class superstar, I’d have to say yeah.
      “Aaron Ramsey has been phenomenal, it’s a shame he couldn’t have played more,
      “We had a fantastic team in 2016, but in terms of strength in depth, it is a lot better now than in 2016. There is top talent all over the team. I’d have say it’s the best squad.”
      The Cymru squad left for Qatar on TuesdayCredit: PA
      Williams says there is extra motivation in the Cymru camp when it comes to the crunch match against neighbouring England.
      He grew up in the South-East but admitted he still thinks about beating the Three Lions at the Al-Rayyan Stadium.
      The former Charlton winger explained: “Any home nation game there is that extra will to win, for us and the fans, it means a bit extra, I managed to play last time out in the Euros, so we know how much it means to the fans.
      “I’ve always been and supported Wales, so it will continue to be that, even though I was born in England.
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      “My dad will be travelling out, so, there is definitely a rivalry there and it is a game that we will be wanting to win.
      “It all comes down to that day, and who can deal with the pressure, it’s hard to focus on one individual when there is so much quality, but you must believe that you can win every game.” More