England's Lionesses beat Germany 2-1 at Euro 2022, bagging their first major trophy.
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Sunday, July 31, 2022
England v Germany player ratings: Ella Toone, Chloe Kelly and Keira Walsh star as Lionesses win Women’s Euro 2022
England are champions of Europe after beating Germany in the Women’s Euro 2022 final – but who starred for the Lionesses in the big match?
Boss Sarina Wiegman opted for her usual 4-2-3-1 line-up, featuring Manchester United’s Mary Earps in goal with Chelsea’s Millie Bright and Arsenal’s Leah Williamson as the centre-backs.
Barcelona right-back Lucy Bronze completed the back four along with left-back Rachel Daly, who plays for American side Houston Dash, with Bayern Munich’s Georgia Stanway and Manchester City’s Keira Walsh in defensive midfield.
In-form forward Beth Mead of Arsenal lined up on the left of the attacking three alongside Chelsea’s Fran Kirby in the middle and City’s Lauren Hemp on the right with veteran City striker Ellen White leading the line.
Ella Toone, Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo, Jill Scott, Alex Greenwood and Nikita Parris came on from the bench – with Toone and Kelly grabbing the crucial goals.
Rating them between 1 and 10, here’s how the Lionesses performed during the Wembley showpiece…
Mary Earps – 8
Strong in the second half despite facing some big chances. Produced one massive save to deny Lea Schuller. Also stopped Tabea Waßmuth in a one-on-one. Was impressive in first half too, denying Schuller a free header by collecting a crossed ball. Not much she could have done about the German goal.
Millie Bright – 6
Good in the first half but there was one sloppy early second-half error, which allowed Tabea Waßmuth to go one-on-one with Mary Earps and could have seen the Lionesses fall behind. Probably could have done better for Germany’s goal too, allowing goalscorer Lina Magull too much space. Not her best showing.
Leah Williamson – 7
Arguably at fault for Germany’s goal, where she played someone onside and failed to close down Tabea Waßmuth, who grabbed the assist. Stepped up during a goalmouth scramble inside the first half though, and was crucial in stopping Germany from getting the ball over the line. Overall, a good performance.
Lucy Bronze – 7
Conjured up a heroic block inside the opening ten minutes to deny Sara Dabritz. Brilliant in the first half but dipped a little in the second half.
Rachel Daly – 6
Somewhat of a quiet game but was composed and didn’t make many errors. Subbed off after 87 minutes.
Georgia Stanway – 6
Booked after less than 23 minutes for a foul on Sara Dabritz. Stepped up for an important late block to stop Lina Magul, with just four minutes left of normal time. Subbed off late-on for Jill Scott.
Keira Walsh – 9
Calm, composed and incisive throughout. Stole the headlines with an incredible assist for England’s opening goal with a stunning long-range pass for Ella Toone. Dictated everything in the second half. A midfield masterclass.
Beth Mead – 7
Initiated a great chance for England on 38 minutes when she found an unmarked Ellen White in the box. Subbed off after 66 minutes and secured the tournament’s Golden Boot.
Fran Kirby – 7
Used her pin-point accuracy to produce a brilliant ball for Ellen White after swivelling past Kathrin Hendrich with just three minutes on the clock – which arguably could have given England an early lead – but the City striker could not convert. Was somewhat quiet otherwise. Replaced by Ella Toone after 55 minutes.
Lauren Hemp – 8
Worked her socks off. Got fans out their seats in the first-half with a stunning piece of skill as she skipped past two Germany players. A big attacking threat for England throughout and caused Germany’s defence plenty of problems. Subbed off near the end of extra time.
Ellen White – 5
Missed a crucial chance after three minutes then booked after 24 minutes. Had another huge chance after 38 minutes when she was found inside the box by Beth Mead, but fired over the crossbar. Subbed off after 55 minutes.
Ella Toone – 9
Gave England the lead after being on the pitch for six minutes with a stunning chip over Merle Frohms. Long-range strike in extra-time forced a save from the Germany goalkeeper.
Chloe Kelly – 9
England’s super sub! She was a constant threat after coming on and wrote her name into the history books with her extra-time winner. She forced the ball over the line.
(Other Subs: Alessia Russo – 7, Jill Scott – 7, Alex Greenwood – 7, Nikita Parris – N/A)
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Euro 2022: Lina Magull equalises for Germany against England
Germany's Lina Magull scores a close-range effort to level the scoring against England in the Euro 2022 final at Wembley.
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It’s come home! England beat Germany in record-breaking final to win Euro 2022
England have won their first major trophy since 1966 after the Lionesses beat Germany in a thrilling and feisty Euro 2022 final in front of a record 87,192 fans at Wembley.
Sarina Wiegman’s side have united the nation during their brilliant Euros campaign and were not to be denied the trophy despite facing eight-time champions Germany in the final.
Manchester United’s Ella Toone gave England the lead in the second half and, while Germany’s Lina Magull equalised late on to take the game to extra-time, Chloe Kelly settled the affair to spark wild celebrations at Wembley and across the country.
It is not only England’s first major trophy since the men’s team won the World Cup in 1966, but the first time an England team has ever won the European Championships.
More to follow…
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Celtic 2-0 Aberdeen: Stephen Welsh header & Jota stunner seal opening-day win for reigning champions
Jota's stunning long-range drive caps off victory for Celtic as they begin their Scottish Premiership title defence with a win over new-look Aberdeen.
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Saturday, July 30, 2022
Women's Euro 2022: Alexandra Popp wears moustache to press conference in reaction to media comments
German captain Alexandra Popp attends her press conference with a fake moustache in reaction to comments made in the media that she could play for the German men's national side.
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Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga set to join Napoli on loan
Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is closing in on a loan move to Napoli, according to reports in Italy.
The 27-year-old, who moved to Stamford Bridge in a £71.6 million deal from Athletic Bilbao in 2018, has spent the past two seasons as Chelsea’s No.2 following the arrival of Edouard Mendy.
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Napoli are now close to reach an agreement to sign Kepa on loan for the upcoming season.
It’s understood that Chelsea have agreed to pay 75% of Kepa’s salary, which is in the region of £150,000 a week.
Chelsea are still to reach a final agreement with Napoli with the Premier League club requesting two bonus payments of €1.5m (£1.2m) as part of the deal.
Kepa, meanwhile, is open to the prospect of joining Napoli, who are looking to replace David Ospina after he left to join Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr earlier this month.
Elsewhere, Chelsea are also in talks with RB Leipzig over a loan deal for Timo Werner.
The forward is keen to get more playing time ahead of Germany’s World Cup campaign in Qatar later this year and has agreed to take a 50 per cent pay cut in order to secure his return to RB Leipzig.
Juventus have also expressed an interest in signing Werner on loan.
Chelsea are also open to offloading Billy Gilmour, Ross Barkley, Kenedy and Ethan Ampadu.
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Euro 2022: England's Millie Bright relishes facing Alexandra Popp
England defender Millie Bright is relishing going up against in-form Germany striker Alexandra Popp in the Euro 2022 final.
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Martin Odegaard sends message to Mikel Arteta after being named new Arsenal captain
Martin Odegaard has revealed his gratitude towards Mikel Arteta after being confirmed as Arsenal’s new permanent club captain.
The Norway international initially joined Arsenal on a six-month loan from Real Madrid before a permanent deal was agreed 12 months ago on Arteta’s insistence.
Odegaard grew in stature and importance last term and wore the armband on several occasions during the recent pre-season tour of America.
The 23-year-old skippered his team on Saturday as Arsenal continued their fine recent form with a crushing 6-0 win over Sevilla to claim the Emirates Cup and afterwards Odegaard outlined his desire to repay Arteta’s latest display of trust.
‘Of course I was happy, proud and grateful for the trust and for him wanting me to be the captain,’ he said.
‘That’s a big achievement for me and it’s nice to be part of such a good team, so I’m going to enjoy that.
‘It’s important that we all take leadership, it’s not just about me or a few people but I think everyone needs to take the leadership and do what’s best for the team, so everyone has to do that.’
Arsenal kick-off the new Premier League season against Crystal Palace on Friday at Selhurst Park and Odegaard insists his side will head into a tricky looking contest in justifiably confident mood.
He said: ‘I think the confidence is obviously high. We’ve had some good games, we’ve beaten two good teams now lately, and we’re playing well.
‘So of course we have a good feeling but we have to stay calm, we have to stay humble, and keep working hard.
‘We know it’s not going to be easy so we have to keep working hard and always be on our toes.
‘That’s what it’s all about, to push everyday.
‘We’ve been waiting for that one (the Palace game) for a while. We are looking forward to starting again, its always nice to get back to playing important games again, so its going to be nice and hopefully we can get a good start.’
MORE : ‘They’re not a threat!’ Roy Keane dismisses Arsenal despite Gabriel Jesus signing
MORE : Sir Alex Ferguson jokes ‘Arsenal are getting relegated’ with legendary jockey Frankie Dettori
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Euro 2022: Celebrities & sport stars send good luck messages to Lionesses
David Beckham, Lewis Hamilton and Fara Williams are among the famous faces sending good luck messages to England before the Euro 2022 final.
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Friday, July 29, 2022
Cristiano Ronaldo mocks Atletico Madrid fans for attempting to block transfer
Cristiano Ronaldo has laughed off a protest from Atletico Madrid supporters who told him he is ‘not welcome’ at the club.
The Manchester United forward has told Erik ten Hag that he wants to leave the club and his agent, Jorge Mendes, reiterated as much at the club’s training ground on Tuesday.
The 37-year-old has seen hopes of a move to Chelsea dashed by Thomas Tuchel, while Bayern Munich have decided against making a move for the veteran.
Despite his options dwindling, Ronaldo remains intent on leaving the Theatre of Dreams and Diego Simeone is said to be keen on signing him.
That is despite Ronaldo’s history with rivals Real Madrid, with Simeone feeling Ronaldo can still contribute in the Spanish capital.
But that is not a view shared by many Atletico supporters, who unveiled a banner in protest at the club’s friendly with Numancia on Thursday.
The banner read: ‘CR7 not welcome’.
Ronaldo has reportedly informed United that he has received an offer from a club and would like the Red Devils to consider it.
It’s unclear where that bid has come from, with former club Sporting Lisbon believed to be interested.
Atletico’s financial situation means it’s unlikely to have come from the Spaniards but in any case, it’s unclear if Ronaldo would be up for the move judging from his social media activity.
Replying to an Instagram account that depicted the banner from the Atletico supporters, Ronaldo responded with a series of ‘cry face’ emojis.
Ronaldo has been left out of United’s squad for the side’s friendly against Atletico in Oslo on Saturday.
Both Ten Hag and Simeone are likely to field questions about the striker’s future.
MORE : Antonio Conte drops hint over long-term stay at Tottenham
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Cristiano Ronaldo: Man Utd forward says he will play in friendly against Rayo Vallecano
Cristiano Ronaldo indicates he will be involved in Manchester United's friendly with Rayo Vallecano amid ongoing speculation over his future.
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Michael Ballack sends message to ‘nice guy’ Timo Werner who must ‘flip the switch’
Michael Ballack has urged Chelsea forward Timo Werner to ‘flip the switch’ as he is a ‘nice guy’ and ‘too well-behaved’.
Werner arrived at Stamford Bridge from RB Leipzig in 2020 boasting a stellar goalscoring record in the Bundesliga,
But it has not worked out for the Germany international as expected, with the 26-year-old struggling to find form for the Blues.
Werner has scored 10 goals in 56 Premier League appearances and is seemingly open to the idea of leaving the club to secure more regular playing time.
‘I could be happy everywhere,’ Werner said earlier this month.
‘It is clear I want to play more and I should play more to first be in good shape for the World Cup and also to have a chance to play at the World Cup.
‘It doesn’t change anything whether it is a winter World Cup or in the summer. I think if I play half of the season or the whole season, I should play. It doesn’t change anything in my mind.’
Ex-Chelsea and Germany midfielder Ballack feels Werner needs to work on building his mental strength back up in order to improve his situation.
‘Timo has been a lot better than what he is at the moment in terms of personality and character,’ Ballack said at a media event in Munich.
‘It was a brave step on his part to go to Chelsea, knowing what their setting is like – but he hasn’t managed to establish himself.
‘It is important for him to take on board what is expected of him.
‘He was close to becoming their undisputed first-choice striker, and with the German national team as well.
‘But that is a position he has lost. He now needs to build up his mental strength once again.
‘He strikes me as a nice guy, but he has to try to flip the switch so he can believe in himself once more.
‘He has what it takes, but to my mind he lacks that ‘elbow mindset’.
‘To my mind he is too well-behaved, and he resigns himself to his fate.
‘If that does not change, he will continue to have a difficult time.’
MORE : Sevilla chief blames Chelsea for losing out on Jules Kounde to Barcelona
MORE : Tammy Abraham ‘in no hurry’ over Premier League return with Chelsea holding £67m buyback option
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Kelly Smith column: Germany 'fear factor' of 2009 not there now
Kelly Smith reflects on England's 2009 Euro final defeat to Germany in her BBC Sport column, and discusses how the mindset will be different when the two sides meet again.
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Paul Merson tells Chelsea they should’ve signed new Arsenal star Gabriel Jesus
Paul Merson is unconvinced by Chelsea’s summer transfer business and believes the Blues should’ve signed Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City ahead of Arsenal.
Jesus made the switch from the Etihad to the Emirates as he reunited with former coach Mikel Arteta.
The Brazil international has impressed in pre-season for the Gunners, scoring the opener in a resounding 4-0 victory over Chelsea in the USA.
Meanwhile, the Blues have been quiet in terms of their transfer business in comparison to their rivals this summer.
Tuchel lost defenders Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, with only Kalidou Koulibaly and Raheem Sterling joining the club so far.
Arsenal legend Merson thinks the Blues should’ve gone in for Jesus and predicts the striker could even score more goals than Man City’s prolific summer signing Erling Haaland.
‘I was at Chelsea vs Arsenal the other day in Florida and Chelsea will have to pull up some trees to catch City and Liverpool,’ Merson told the Daily Star.
‘It’s plain to see they can’t play a back four. I go a lot and whenever they play it you might as well go home. It’s that extreme.
‘I also don’t like Chelsea’s business, it’s been slow and could come back to haunt them. It’s why Thomas Tuchel is getting so frustrated.
‘You look at the other side and Arsenal had Gabriel Jesus and you’re scratching your head. How did Arsenal get him?
‘The kid is an out-and-out centre-forward, he may even outscore Haaland. He was unbelievable the other day, why didn’t Chelsea have a look?
‘When I was walking out of the ground, fans were saying ‘it hasn’t started properly yet, wait until the season starts’ but not what I watched, that was alarming.’
MORE : Arsenal left-back Nuno Tavares set to join Marseille on loan
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Graham Alexander: Motherwell boss leaves after European exit
Graham Alexander leaves his role as Motherwell manager in the aftermath of the side's European exit.
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Thursday, July 28, 2022
Former Arsenal captain and manager Terry Neill dies aged 80
Arsenal and Northern Ireland legend Terry Neill has died at the age of 80, the north London club has confirmed.
The Belfast-born defender joined the Gunners at just 17 years old from Bangor, Northern Ireland in 1959 and went on to play 275 times for the club, before moving to Hull City in 1970.
He only played for those two clubs in his career, although he racked up 59 caps for his country as well, captaining Northern Ireland, just like he did Arsenal.
Neill began his managerial career with Hull before his playing days were over and went on to take charge of Spurs for a couple of years before returning to the Gunners in 1976, still at just 34 years old.
He remained the Gunners manager until 1983, winning the FA Cup in 1979 and twice finishing runners-up, as they did in the 1980 Cup Winners’ Cup.
As part of a tribute to Neill, a statement from the club read: ‘It was with great sadness that the club learned of the death of former manager and captain, Terry Neill, aged 80.
‘Terry Neill’s status as both club captain and manager made him a major influence on 20th-century Arsenal. His fantastic contribution – and indeed his character – will always be appreciated by everyone associated with the club.
‘Our thoughts are with Terry’s family and close friends at this difficult time.’
On recounting his career and latter days, Arsenal added: ‘Despite not working in football management again, Terry remained a regular presence at Highbury then Emirates Stadium, including being a popular TV pundit and columnist in numerous publications.
‘His larger-than-life character and willingness to talk football with everyone always made him a well-liked figure at the club on matchdays.’
MORE : Arsenal left-back Nuno Tavares set to join Marseille on loan
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Barcelona confirm signing of Jules Kounde as defender snubs Chelsea
Barcelona have announced that they have agreed a deal in principle for the transfer of Jules Kounde, beating Chelsea to the Sevilla defender.
Kounde had looked set to join Chelsea last week, having been linked with Stamford Bridge since last summer, before the Catalan club swooped in to steal the player from under Thomas Tuchel’s nose.
The fee for the 23-year-old is thought to be around £45million, and the deal is still subject to the passing of his medical and signing of contracts.
The France international has been one of the most impressive young central defenders in the top European leagues in the past couple of seasons, having signed for Sevilla three years ago from Bordeaux in his homeland, with the La Liga club paying just over £25m for his services.
He won the UEFA Europa League with his new side at the end of his first season in Spain, and was part of the French national team squad which emerged victorious in the 2020/21 UEFA Nations League.
He becomes Barcelona’s fifth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Franck Kessie, ex-Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski, although questions remain about how Xavi’s side have been able to afford all these players given their well-documented financial issues.
Regardless, it is yet another huge transfer blow for Chelsea, who have seen numerous defensive targets rejecting moves to West London.
Matthijs de Ligt opted to join Bayern Munich from Juventus, while Nathan Ake and Presnel Kimpembe have opted to say at Manchester City and PSG respectively.
Tuchel has managed to add centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly to his squad, alongside forward Raheem Sterling, but this has been a very frustrating first transfer window for new Blues’ owner Todd Boehly.
MORE : Guy Poyet rates Barcelona’s decision to sign key Chelsea transfer target Jules Kounde
MORE : Ray Parlour makes top-four prediction and tips Chelsea to ‘struggle’
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Terry Neill: Former Arsenal and Northern Ireland captain and manager dies at 80
Former Arsenal and Northern Ireland captain and manager Terry Neill passes away at the age of 80.
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Jules Kounde: Barcelona agree deal with Sevilla to sign France defender
Barcelona reach an agreement with Sevilla to sign France centre-back Jules Kounde.
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Phil Foden compares Erling Haaland to Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero
Phil Foden says new Manchester City signing Erling Haaland has similar finishing skills to club legend Sergio Aguero, as he backs his teammate to become unstoppable in the Premier League.
Haaland has arrived at the Etihad from Borussia Dortmund this summer and is expected to be a big hit in the Premier League after a stellar goal-scoring record in Germany, and Austria before that.
The 22-year-old scored 29 goals in 27 appearances for RB Salburg, earning his move to Dortmund where he netted 86 times in 89 games, which is why he now finds himself at the Premier League champions.
He has an awful long way to go to catch Aguero in his goal-scoring exploits for City, with the Argentinian netting 260 times for the club, but Foden says the Norwegian reminds him of his former teammate.
‘In front of goal he’s scary,’ Foden told Sky Sports. ‘Everyone knows his goal record, how many he scores, but he’s coming into a completely different league, much faster football so it might take him a little (while) to get used to, but I’m sure when he’s in his flow he’s going to be unstoppable.
‘Aguero is very similar. Haaland has got all different types of finishes as well.
‘Like I said he’s scary in front of goal and if we can get him the ball in the right areas he’s going to be really important for us this year.’
The England international says Haaland has quickly settled into life at Manchester City, endearing himself to his new teammates and showing that he is desperate to succeed.
‘Top guy off the pitch, he’s a great character, a great addition to the team,’ Foden said of the giant forward.
‘He makes everyone laugh and he’s dead humble, which is important when you come into a team.
‘He’s hungry to achieve things with us, so it can only mean good things.’
Haaland scored for the first time in a City shirt at the weekend in a friendly win over Bayern Munich and will get a chance to shine against Liverpool in the Community Shield on Saturday.
The Premier League champions get the defence of their title underway on 7 August with a trip to West Ham.
MORE : ‘Guardiola’s been crazy!’ – Erling Haaland already loving life at Manchester City
MORE : Jack Grealish reveals Erling Haaland’s cheeky message to him on Manchester City arrival
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Nick Anderton: Bristol Rovers defender diagnosed with bone cancer
Bristol Rovers defender Nick Anderton is diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer.
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Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Chris Richards: Crystal Palace sign Bayern Munich's US international
Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Bayern Munich defender Chris Richards for an initial fee of £8.5m, plus £2.5m in add-ons, on a five-year deal.
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Manchester United dismiss possible exchange deal involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Antoine Griezmann
Manchester United have ruled out the possibility of a swap deal with Atletico Madrid involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Antoine Griezmann, according to reports.
Ronaldo has been looking to leave United this summer in order to join a club who will be playing in the Champions League.
But so far the 37-year-old has failed to attract interest from the few clubs who could afford his wages, with Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid all ruling out a move.
Atletico Madrid have also been approached by Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, but have distanced themselves due to the high cost of the deal.
‘I don’t know who invented this story about Cristiano Ronaldo to Atletico Madrid. It’s definitely not true,’ Atletico president Enrique Cerezo said this week.
‘It’s practically impossible for him to come to Atletico Madrid.’
According to The Athletic, United are aware that Griezmann has been made available by Atletico this summer but the idea of signing the France international has been ‘dismissed’.
United came close to signing Griezmann in 2017 but the 31-year-old ended up spending two more seasons with Atletico before his move to Barcelona in 2019.
Atletico would need to offload Griezmann in order to stand any chance of financing a move for Ronaldo this summer.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, returned to training with United this week after spending the majority of pre-season in Portugal due to family reasons.
The 37-year-old arrived at Carrington with his agent Jorge Mendes, who has been trying to negotiate the player’s departure.
Erik ten Hag has been adamant he wants to keep Ronaldo in his squad, while United have shown no indication that they would be willing to let the Portugal international leave Old Trafford.
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Champions League: Ten-man Linfield bow out after heavy defeat by Bodo/Glimt
Ten-man Linfield bow out of the Champions League after falling to a heavy defeat by Bodo/Glimt in the second-round qualifier in Norway.
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Three ways Manchester United could line-up with new signing Lisandro Martinez
Manchester United have confirmed the long-awaited signing of Lisandro Martinez from Ajax for £46million.
The highly rated Argentine played under Erik ten Hag for three seasons at the Eredivisie club and much has already been made of his ability on the ball, tactical awareness, aggression, and leadership skills.
But it is still not clear where exactly the versatile 24-year-old will play for United, as while a natural centre-back, he is also capable of filling in as a defensive midfielder or left-back.
And how will his arrival effect those already at Old Trafford as well as fellow new signings Christian Eriksen and Tyrell Malacia?
Metro Sport takes a look at three ways Ten Hag could line Manchester United up for the 2022/23 season with Lisandro Martinez:
The left-sided centre-back
Martinez’s most natural position, it is expected that he will slot straight into United’s back four, with Ten Hag deploying a 4-2-3-1 formation in three of the Red Devils’ four pre-season friendlies so far.
His defensive partner will be one of Harry Maguire or Raphael Varane, with the former the more likely given his role as captain, while Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot have emerged as the first-choice full-backs.
Beyond that, Ten Hag’s United line-up looks set to be more or less what was seen last season when everyone was fit, although it should be said that rarely happened.
There are two big question marks in regard to personnel, in the form of Frenkie de Jong and Cristiano Ronaldo, with the former wanted at United but unwilling to join and the latter at United but wanting to leave.
For now, we’ll take the view that De Jong is unavailable, and Ronaldo is, but that could all change come the opening game of the season against Brighton.
The defensive midfielder
Comfortable in possession and with passing out from the back, Martinez has often been deployed as the No.6 in a midfield when a bit more defensive grit is needed.
With the De Jong transfer stalling, Martinez could operate in this position more frequently, which in turn could allow for a more creative midfielder like Eriksen or Donny van de Beek to come into the team ahead of Fred or Scott McTominay.
Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho have excelled in pre-season, as has Antony Martial who could well enjoy a resurgence as United’s alternative striker option to Ronaldo.
The left-side of a back three
Similar to Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, Ten Hag’s Ajax often morphed from its 4-2-3-1 formation to one resembling a 3-3-4, with the full-backs pushing high to join the attack, while one midfielder drops deep to reinforce the defence.
But with Chelsea and Tottenham currently employing 3-4-3 formations, Ten Hag may want to start those games with a back three, where he can match them man for man and deploy all three of his star centre-backs.
This would allow the full-backs more freedom to create chances, something they have done frequently in the recent friendlies, and would put less pressure on the defensive output of Fred who has struggled in that department since his move to Old Trafford in 2018.
As mentioned, Martinez can play at left-back but it is a very rare occurrence and will only likely happen at United should Shaw, Malacia and, providing he is not sold, Alex Telles become unavailable.
MORE : Jaap Stam issues verdict on new Manchester United signings Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia
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Alessia Russo: The England super sub who is making her name at Euro 2022
Striker Alessia Russo used to be made to play in goal by her brothers but with her vital goals from the bench she has emerged as one of England's Euro 2022 stars.
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Tuesday, July 26, 2022
England reach Women’s Euros final with rousing thrashing of Sweden in Sheffield
England are into the finals of the 2022 Women’s European Championship thanks to a rousing 4-0 win over Sweden in Sheffield.
It was not quite as easy as the scoreline suggests, with Sweden having a number of chances and Mary Earps impressing in the England goal, but the Lionnesses are on their way to Wembley on Sunday where they will meet Germany or France.
Goals from Beth Mead, Lucy Bronze, substitute Alessia Russo and Fran Kirby made the difference, with Russo’s effort a memorable backheel from the Manchester United star.
Mead continued her superb goal-scoring run, her sixth of the tournament, which extends her lead at the top of the scoring charts in the competition.
There was not just one star of the show, though, with the whole team performing brilliantly as they turned the screw on an excellent Swedish side.
Sarina Wiegman’s team now have the chance to win the European Championship for the first time when they meet either the Germans or the French in north London.
Sweden started very brightly, with Sofia Jakobsson looking dangerous and having two early chances, the first forcing Earps into a sharp save within the first minute.
England worked into the game, though, and it was the home side that took the lead on 34 minutes when Mead latched onto a Bronze cross from the right.
She was given too much time as she controlled, swivelled and powered the ball home, settling plenty of nerves that would have been floating around South Yorkshire.
The second came just moments after the half-time interval as Bronze rose unmarked at a corner and her header found its way through a group of players and into the back of the net.
There was concern that Lauren Hemp was offside in front of Swedish goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl, but VAR ruled in England’s favour.
Sweden were still looking dangerous, with the likes of Stina Blackstenius posing a threat, but the Lionesses ended the match as a contest thanks to a special Russo goal on 68 minutes.
The 23-year-old had very nearly produced a goal just seconds after coming on when she crossed for Hemp, only to see a shot come back off the bar, but Russo sorted it out herself 10 minutes later.
The Manchester United forward had a good chance saved by Lindahl, but she pounced on the rebound, facing away from goal she caught the ‘keeper off guard with a backheel which nutmegged the stopper.
At 3-0 the game was over, but Kirby rubbed salt in Swedish wounds as a long range effort should really have been stopped by Lindahl, but she could only palm it up and over her head and into the net.
At 4-0, the home team took their foot off the gas a little with 15 minutes to play and eased their way into Sunday’s final.
MORE : I’ve been a lifelong football fan – but it took the Lionesses to get me into the women’s game
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Euro 2022: Mary Earps' 'sensational' save denies Sweden in first minute
Watch Mary Earps' "'sensational" save as the England keeper stops Sofia Jakobsson scoring for Sweden in the first minute of their Euro 2022 semi-final.
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England v Sweden: Rate the players from Euro 2022 semi-final
Rate the players out of 10 as England face Sweden in the semi-finals of Euro 2022 at Bramall Lane in Sheffield.
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Christian Eriksen names his two football heroes as he is unveiled as a Manchester United player
Christian Eriksen has named Francesco Totti and Michael Laudrup as two of his greatest footballing heroes, and while the latter is no surprise due to their shared nationality, the Italian is for a less obvious reason.
The Dane was unveiled as a Manchester United player on Tuesday, pictured in his new kit for the first time as he embarks on a new chapter in his career.
The 30-year-old has arrived at Old Trafford on a free transfer after making a remarkable recovery from the cardiac arrest he suffered at Euro 2020. He returned to football with Brentford and after an impressive six months with the Bees, the Red Devils have snapped him up.
While there may have been plenty of former Manchester United players who could have been Eriksen’s footballing heroes, he said it was Totti and Laudrup who inspired him more than most.
Michael Laudrup is one of the greats of Danish football, so that came naturally, but it was computer game Football Manager that turned Eriksen on to the Roma legend.
‘I had a few,’ Eriksen told the Manchester United official website when asked for his footballing heroes. ‘I had Francesco Totti – mostly because at that age I played a lot of Football Manager, so I had took over Roma back in that time!
‘And then after it was Michael Laudrup. As Danes I can pick Michael Laudrup, but I really wasn’t into many idols.
‘I preferred myself to be on the pitch and really just to be outside and play by myself.’
It is a rebuilding process that Eriksen has joined at Manchester United, but the former Tottenham man is not lacking ambition.
He reckons Erik ten Hag and his team will be aiming for the top, and will certainly be targeting some silverware in the Dutchman’s first season in charge.
‘I’m pretty sure the ambitions are, of course, to be top again,’ said Eriksen. ‘It’s the dream of the club and the history is now being the best, so I think the only aim is to go as high as possible and see where it takes us.
‘But I think the aim is definitely to win something.’
MORE : Manchester United send teenager Alvaro Fernandez out on loan to Preston
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Yaya Toure set to take coaching role in Tottenham academy
Former Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure is set to take a coaching role within Tottenham's academy.
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Cristiano Ronaldo still determined to leave Manchester United despite Sir Alex Ferguson joining battle to keep him
Cristiano Ronaldo is still determined to leave Manchester United this summer despite the presence of Sir Alex Ferguson during Tuesday’s crunch talks over his future.
Ronaldo, 37, has not returned for pre-season training with his agent Jorge Mendes attempting to find a new club for his client this summer.
On Tuesday, the Portuguese forward and his representative arrived at United’s Carrington training base for a day of negotiations, with United’s CEO Richard Arnold also in attendance alongside Ferguson.
It was Ferguson who brought a 17-year-old Ronaldo to Manchester in 2003, playing an instrumental role in his development into a star of world football with the two maintaining a close relationship over the years.
But after an opening round of talks, Ronaldo remains determined to leave Old Trafford and join another team, according to the Daily Telegraph.
United have been adamant that the former Real Madrid star will not be allowed to leave and will play a key role under Erik ten Hag this season.
And the club have ‘have not shifted in the slightest’ from that position, leaving the two parties at an impasse with the new season just 12 days away.
Mendes has offered Ronaldo to Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain with the three European giants each declining his proposals.
Atletico Madrid have also been sounded out with Ronaldo willing to join the club despite establishing himself as a club legend across town during his nine glorious years at Real Madrid.
Atletico however cannot currently afford the move, a situation that could change in the coming weeks.
Ronaldo has one year left on his current deal with the option to extend that by a further 12 months.
United remain short of options up front and despite Anthony Martial showing excellent form during pre-season, the club are not prepared to part with last season’s top scorer.
Ronaldo hit 24 goals during his first season back as United finished the season without a trophy and in sixth place with their lowest ever Premier League points tally.
United begin the new season at home to Brighton on 7 August.
MORE : Cristiano Ronaldo’s Man United exit complicated by Atletico Madrid striker’s transfer refusal
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Monday, July 25, 2022
Cristiano Ronaldo to Atletico Madrid ‘makes no sense at all’, says Shaka Hislop
Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential move to Atletico Madrid from Manchester United ‘makes no sense at all’, according to pundit Shaka Hislop.
Ronaldo is on his way back to the UK for talks with United over his future with the 37-year-old eager to leave the club after just one season back at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo is still to return to pre-season training, citing ‘family reasons’, missing the United’s tour of Asia and Australia as they prepare for the new 2022-23 campaign.
United maintain that Ronaldo is not for sale despite his efforts to find a new club.
Chelsea, PSG, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are among the clubs who have been offered the chance to sign him – with none of those sides willing to do a deal – and Atletico are the latest club to be linked with the Portugal international.
Former goalkeeper and current pundit Hislop feels a Ronaldo move to Atletico would not make any sense given his links to Real, previous fallings out with Diego Simeone and the fact that he does not suit the club’s intense style of football.
‘Atletico Madrid of all clubs? It’s the one that makes the least sense to me,’ Hislop told ESPN FC.
‘Of all the clubs in world football that can afford Cristiano Ronaldo – and let’s be honest, there’s only a handful – Atletico doesn’t make any sense at all.
‘It makes no sense. Not just because of his time at Real but because of his own personal history with that club.
‘I’m sure Atleti fans will embrace him and take him on if he becomes one of their own, and especially if he starts scoring goals, but right now they have protests around this.
‘You can understand why. But football is a fickle game. Football fandom even more so. But I still don’t see how this makes sense.’
Quizzed on how Ronaldo would fit into Simeone’s system at Atletico, Hislop added: ‘Diego Simeone would have to make an exception for Cristiano Ronaldo.
‘He doesn’t have the legs. You’re bringing him in as an inside-the-18-yard-box striker. You can’t ask anything else at his age.’
MORE : Victor Osimhen responds to Arsenal and Man United transfer links
MORE : Gary Neville tells Frenkie de Jong to take 'legal action' against 'bullies' Barcelona
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‘F**** you!’ – Arsenal’s Edu furious at club for targeting top four before his arrival as technical director
Arsenal’s technical director Edu is angry that the club used to target top four finishes and says ‘f*** you’ to those who think it is an achievement.
The Gunners finished fifth last season following back-to-back eighth-place finishes in the Premier League.
Arsenal have failed to finish in the Premier League top four for the past six seasons and have not played in the Champions League since 2016-17.
But Edu, who became Arsenal’s technical director in 2019, feels that Mikel Arteta’s side should be aiming much higher than that.
Under Arsene Wenger’s long reign in north London, the Gunners had a reputation for fourth-place finishes.
But following his exit in 2018, Arsenal finished fifth under his successor Unai Emery before Arteta took over and led them to two eighth-place finishes before a return to fifth last season.
‘Arsenal should not be building to just fight for fourth,’ Edu told The Sun. ‘A club of our size cannot accept that.
‘That’s what really hurt when I returned three years ago. I was asking, ‘What’s happening here? Everybody is comfortable and they’re all OK with that?’.
‘Well, f*** you, because that’s not the mentality of this club. I want everyone to feel, ‘F****** hell, now we are really going to go for things’.
‘So we needed a squad with personalities that say, ‘I am not losing this game – I will kill someone first but I don’t lose’.
‘And this summer I think we’ve added more players with that kind of character.’
Arsenal have been active in the summer transfer window, brining in striker Gabriel Jesus and defender Oleksandr Zinchenko from Manchester City for £45m and £32m each.
They have also signed Fabio Vieira from Porto for £34m as well as goalkeeper Matt Turner from New England Revolution and Marquinhos from Sao Paulo for undisclosed fees.
Arsenal’s Premier League season gets started on August 5 when they travel to face Crystal Palace.
MORE : Victor Osimhen responds to Arsenal and Man United transfer links
MORE : Arsenal's big-money flops were 'killing' the club, says Edu
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Euro 2022: England face Sweden in semi-final at Bramall Lane
England will attempt to reach the European Women's Championship final for a third time when they face 1984 winners Sweden on Tuesday.
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Sekou Mara: Southampton sign teenage striker from Bordeaux
Southampton make a sixth signing of the summer by bringing in teenage striker Sekou Mara from French club Bordeaux.
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Nayef Aguerd: West Ham signing has surgery on ankle injured in Rangers match
West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd, who signed for the club in June, has successful surgery on the ankle he injured in a pre-season game against Rangers.
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Cristiano Ronaldo to hold face-to-face talks with Erik ten Hag to decide his Manchester United future
Cristiano Ronaldo is on his way back to the UK for talks with Manchester United over his future.
The 37-year-old is eager to leave the club after just one season back at Old Trafford with agent Jorge Mendes trying to engineer a move to a club competing in this season’s Champions League.
Ronaldo is still to return to pre-season training, citing ‘family reasons’, missing the club’s tour of Asia and Australia.
But The Athletic report the former Real Madrid star is now on his way back to Manchester to hold discussions with Erik ten Hag and the club’s hierarchy.
United maintain that Ronaldo is not for sale despite his efforts to find a new club.
The veteran striker is set to sit down with the club today but it is currently unclear if he will return to training on Tuesday.
Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are among the clubs who have been offered the Portuguese with none of those sides willing to do a deal.
Atletico Madrid have also been approached with Ronaldo having no qualms over signing for Real’s fierce city rivals. Diego Simeone’s side however are unable to finance the move unless they offload players first.
Ronaldo is still to train under or even come face-to-face with ten Hag since his arrival in Manchester but the Dutchman has been insistent the player remains a key part of his plans.
Ronaldo has 12 months left on his current deal with an option to extend that by a further year – an option ten Hag has suggested the club will activate.
“I am well informed, he also has also an option (of another year),’ ten Hag said last week.
‘Yes [Ronaldo could stay beyond this season]. But to be honest, of course, I have signed here for three years, but in football it’s short-term as well. We have to win from the start. So I don’t look that far ahead.
‘I have a strategy, it’s a process, it takes time but in the end, we have to make sure from the outset there is a winning team.’
MORE : Cristiano Ronaldo’s Man United exit complicated by Atletico Madrid striker’s transfer refusal
MORE : Cristiano Ronaldo likely to miss start of new season with Man Utd still in the dark over his future
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Manor Solomon: Fulham to sign Israel midfielder after Shakhtar Donetsk contract suspension
Fulham say they have agreed a deal to sign Israel midfielder Manor Solomon until June 2023 after he suspended his contract with Shakhtar Donetsk.
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Sunday, July 24, 2022
Football kit sales delayed as supply chain issues hit clubs
Fewer than half of English clubs have both their home and away kits on sale ahead of the new season.
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‘I am focused and determined’ – Nicolas Pepe sends message to Mikel Arteta over his Arsenal future
Nicolas Pepe has hinted he is ready to stay and fight for his place at Arsenal this season.
The Ivory Coast international joined the Gunners for a club record £72miillion deal from Lille in 2019 but has been unable to consistency force himself into the first-team picture in north London.
Pepe started just five Premier League games last season, contributing one goal and one assist with recent reports claiming he has been deemed surplus to requirements with Arsenal willing to listen to offers.
Leeds United, Marseille, Lyon and Sevilla are all said to be interested in signing Pepe with Arsenal hoping to collect around £25m for the player who has two years left on his contract at the Emirates.
Pepe is part of the Gunners squad currently in the US as part of Arsenal’s pre-season tour, featuring in all three games against Everton, Orlando City and Chelsea.
Ahead of the club’s return to the UK, the 27-year-old has suggested he is ready to fight for a first-team role under Mikel Arteta.
‘I worked hard during the summer. Changed a lot of things,’ Pepe wrote on Instagram.
‘I’m focused and determined with Arsenal and my teammates.’
Pepe struggled for a first-team role last season with Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Emile Smith Rowe among those ahead of him in the pecking order.
Arsenal have further strengthened in attacking positions this summer with Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira arriving at the club from Manchester City and Porto respectively.
Arsenal ended their pre-season tour with a thumping 4-0 win over Chelsea in Florida with Oleksandr Zinchenko making his Gunners debut.
‘He was desperate to play and I knew that,’ Arteta said of his newest recruit. ‘It was a maximum 45 minutes but you could see straight away he was comfortable.
‘He understands everything that I want, he understands the process and I thought he had a really good game.’
Arsenal will now return to London and face Spanish side Sevilla at the Emirates next weekend before starting their Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace on 5 August.
MORE : Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta provides Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira injury updates after Chelsea win
MORE : Mikel Arteta hails two players after Arsenal smash Chelsea 4-0 in Florida Cup friendly
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Transfer rumours: Messi, de Jong, Milinkovic-Savic, Firmino, Martial, Ndombele, Kounde, Paqueta
Lionel Messi's time at Barcelona is 'not over', Manchester United turn to Sergej Milinkovic-Savic as an alternative to Frenkie de Jong, Juventus make bid for Liverpool's Roberto Firmino, plus more.
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