Euro 2024

1996. Wembley Stadium. I’m standing in a sea of England flags and fans, watching the Euros semi-final. As the crowd roars with one voice, it’s electric. Football’s coming home.

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It didn’t of course. But that day, England stood shoulder to shoulder. Beyond the stadium, across the entire country, we shared the highs and lows together.

Being there felt like we were part of something larger than ourselves. An England that belonged to our grandparents and our history, but also to our children and our future. And I felt like I was part of it.

That’s the power of our flag. To make us all feel like part of Team England.

Win or lose, north or south, black or white, old or young. Even Spurs and Arsenal were on the same team that day, cheering on our country.

So I know what a source of pride our flag can be, and what it means to people.

Which is makes it all the more shameful when people exploit that symbol to stoke anger and division.

I know people feel angry that the country they love doesn’t seem to work for them.

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People who feel like they’re doing everything right, but getting nothing to show for it.

Working harder and harder just to stand still, and worried what the future will look like for their kids.

I share that frustration. I’m determined to fix it. But a small minority see instead an opportunity to whip up hatred. To follow and old and dangerous playbook that sets people against one another.

That’s what we’ve seen in parts of the country. Police officers assaulted.

Loutish behaviour on the streets. And people made to feel like they are not welcome or safe here because of their heritage, religion or colour of their skin.

We’ve seen a nine year old black girl shot at in a racist attack. Chinese takeaways defaced. That sends a shiver down the spine of every right-minded Brit. This is not who we are.

When populist politicians, convicted criminals, and foreign billionaires take to the stage to encourage violence, make racist comments, and threaten our democracy, it casts a dark shadow of fear and violence across our society.

They want to drag our country down into a toxic spiral of division and hatred because it’s good for them. But their vile lies are not good for the country.

Here’s the truth. Over the past 15 years, trust in politics has been eroded. the economy became weaker and weaker. Opportunities disappeared as libraries, leisure centres, community spaces shut down during austerity.

Public services like our NHS neglected, neighbourhoods looking more and more tired as high streets shuttered up, anti-social behaviour blighting people’s lives.

Working people were left to scrap over fewer and fewer crumbs.

Now we’re at a crossroads. There is a dark path ahead of division and decline, toxicity and fear.

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A path that relies on destruction and disappointment, because when the damage is done and the graffiti cleaned away, it’s clear the populists  never had anything to offer – no hope, no future, no answers.

Or, there is the patriotic path of national renewal. Every one of us playing our part to renew, restore, rebuild the country we love.

That is the path we choose. 

Because this government is taking responsibility to reverse the decline.

We’re growing our economy so there’s more to go round for everyone, with 5 cuts in interest rates saving families up to £1,000 on their mortgage each year.

We’re building 1.5 million new homes, new towns, hospitals and schools and improving transport across the country. We’re delivering 5.2 million extra NHS appointments.

And we’re saving families £7,500 a year on childcare, giving hard working parents more cash and more time.

Of course we need to deal with the issues the country faces, like illegal immigration, head on.

But the way to be proud of our country again is to be part of the renewal, not the destruction. This is a struggle for the heart and soul of our nation.

But it’s not between ordinary people who simply want a better life for their families. It’s between patriots who care about our country, and populists who only care about themselves.

They want to control a current of tension and fear. I want the electricity I felt in that stadium almost thirty years ago, of a defiant Britain, a nation of decency and diversity, that still dares to stand together and believe in better.

Because this is the country that stood tall – with our allies – against the forces of fascism 80 years ago.

This is who we are. We’ve got the match of our lives ahead. And we need you on the pitch.

ONE year ago, having nicely slotted into England’s midfield at Euro 2024, it seemed Kobbie Mainoo could do no wrong.

But now the Manchester United star is already at a crossroads in his career at the age of 20 — with only the love of the fans for comfort.

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After joining United at the age of six, the thought of Mainoo leaving Old Trafford is unthinkable for many supporters.

But the Stockport lad continues to face a brutal battle to secure a spot in the 4-3-2-1 system of manager Ruben Amorim.

His emergence in the 2023–24 season under former boss Erik ten Hag felt like the long-awaited unveiling of United’s next midfield maestro.

Mainoo — who, along with Alejandro Garnacho, became the first teenager to score in the FA Cup final since Cristiano Ronaldo’s strike against Millwall in 2004 — was considered the future of the club.

Weeks after his Wembley triumph, Mainoo’s vision and composure solved Gareth Southgate’s midfield conundrum during England’s surge to the Euros final.

He was regarded as one of Europe’s brightest talents.

That was highlighted by his third-place finish in last year’s Kopa Trophy, which is awarded to the world’s best under-21 talent and was won by Lamine Yamal.

But the youngster suffered the first major setback of his career just months after the Euros as he missed 17 games when fatigue brought about two different muscle injuries.

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And Mainoo, whose contract talks stalled months ago, now has two new managers to impress in Amorim and Thomas Tuchel — and it seems the former is not keen at all.

Unlike ex-England boss Southgate, Amorim seems to lack faith in the academy graduate to fix United’s midfield mess.

In the week former Red Devils star Scott McTominay earned a Ballon d’Or nod, Amorim ramped up his search for upgrades on Manuel Ugarte, 24, and veteran Casemiro, 33.

That search led United to make contact with Brighton about a potential move for 21-year-old holding midfielder Carlos Baleba, who the Seagulls value at £100million.

Mainoo, who has beefed his body up this summer, looked at home as a No 8 for two pre-season games during their US tour.

But new arrivals Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha are set to start the season as the two No 10s, meaning skipper Bruno Fernandes is expected to make a permanent switch to a deeper midfield role.

The only reasonable spot left for Mainoo would be next to Fernandes in the double pivot — but Casemiro and Ugarte seem to hold favour there.

With United out of Europe, there will not be as many opportunities to play in the reduced schedule.

MAN UTD PLAYER RATINGS: Bryan Mbeumo eases pressure on Bruno Fernandes but Matheus Cunha lacks sharpness vs Fiorentina

BRYAN MBEUMO showed fans what they’ve been missing as Manchester United beat Fiorentina 5-4 on penalties in their final pre-season friendly.

United were a mixed bag in their final summer warm-up game- and the only one at Old Trafford – before the start of the new season next Sunday.

United unveiled their four new signings but it was Benjamin Sesko – who was announced from RB Leipzig before kick-off – that got the loudest roar from fans.

And this match proved how much they needed him…

Here’s how SunSport’s Man Utd reporter Katherine Walsh rated the players…

And if Mainoo keeps warming the bench, it does not bode well for his chances of making Three Lions boss Tuchel’s squad for the World Cup next summer.

Mainoo got the last 20 minutes of United’s final pre-season friendly against Fiorentina on Saturday, before his team-mates made a beeline for him after he scored the penalty-shootout winner after a 1-1 draw.

It has gone quiet on the new contract and bumped-up wages front for Mainoo.

The club have struggled to nail him down to fresh terms, with Chelsea and Tottenham now waiting with open arms.

While fellow Cup final scorer and academy graduate Garnacho is up for sale, losing Mainoo would be a devastating blow.

He is a Mancunian through-and-through and a boyhood fan.

With the 1958 United supporter group set to protest against Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazers before Sunday’s Prem opener against Arsenal, their outrage would pale in comparison to the grief of losing Mainoo — and especially to a rival.

Man Utd’s transfer deals

IN

• Bryan Mbeumo – from Brentford – £71m
• Matheus Cunha – from Wolves – £62.5m
• Diego Leon – from Cerro Porteno – £7m

TOTAL – £140.5m

OUT

• Victor Lindelof – released
• Christian Eriksen – released

TOTAL – £0m

MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWS LIVE

GOALIE Hannah Hampton was England’s penalties hero with two saves as the Lionesses roared to Euros glory over Spain last night.

Hannah starred in the 3-1 shootout win after the sides drew 1-1 in Basel, Switzerland.

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The King hailed their historic victory, three years after winning Euro 2022. He said: “The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027 if you possibly can!”

They are the first senior England football team to win a major tournament on foreign soil and the first to retain a trophy after victory in 2022.

It was striker Chloe Kelly who sealed the win — repeating her feat from Wembley three years ago when she took off her jersey in celebration.

She brought it home this time by scoring the crucial penalty, sparking scenes of joy in Basel, Switzerland.

Manager Sarina Wiegman — winning her third consecutive Euros after victory in 2017 with the Netherlands — ran on to the pitch punching the air as she joined the mass of players and staff mobbing Kelly.

The Arsenal ace was in tears as she joined thousands of delighted fans singing Sweet Caroline.

Moments later, Kelly said: “I am so proud of this team. So grateful to wear this badge. So proud to be English. I was cool, I was composed.

“I knew I was going to hit the back of the net. Unbelievable. All the staff and Sarina Wiegman — she has done it again! Unbelievable.

“It is going to be crazy. I hope the whole of England comes out to support us and shows their love to these girls as they deserve it.”

Supersub Michelle Agyemang, the breakout star of the tournament, sank to her knees and wept as Kelly’s penalty went in.

In the stands, Prince William and daughter Princess Charlotte roared with delight at the victory.

Just before kick-off, a snap of the pair was posted on the Prince and Princess of Wales’s X account with the caption: “Let’s go, Lionesses.”

Jubilant Wills later greeted them, giving skipper Leah Williamson a hug, before they were presented the Euro 2025 trophy on the pitch.

King Charles told the Lionesses: “You have my whole family’s warmest appreciation and admiration. The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027, if you possibly can!”

The team will be at a Downing Street reception today hosted by Deputy PM Angela Rayner and sports minister Stephanie Peacock.

Ms Rayner said: “Our Lionesses are absolute champions. Not only are they bringing it home for England again, but they’re inspiring the next generation of champions too.”

PM Keir Starmer added: “The Lionesses have once again captured the hearts of the nation.

“Their victory is not only a remarkable sporting achievement, but an inspiration for young people across the country.”

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Former England striker and footie pundit Gary Lineker wrote online: “They’ve done it again. She’s done it again. Kelly’s heroes. Fabulous.”

Dutchwoman Wiegman said after the win: “I can’t believe it! We said we can win by any means and that’s what we have shown again today.

“I am so proud of the team and the staff. It is incredible.”

Spain were favourites on the back of an impressive run of ten straight victories in all competitions, scoring 38 goals in the process.

But England, despite a shaky start to the tournament, were confident after seeing off Sweden in the quarters and Italy in the semi-final.

A crowd of 34,203 watched as England enjoyed a bright start, with the first chance after three minutes.

But as the match wore on, Spain began to dominate and England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was forced into several crucial saves.

Mariona Caldentey put Spain ahead on 25 minutes, with Alessia Russo heading England level on 57 minutes.

Then, with neither side making a breakthrough in extra time, the match went to a penalty shootout.

Hero Hampton saved twice before Kelly’s trademark hop, skip and run penalty went in to secure the victory.

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Laura Woods is one of the most recognisable faces on TV when it comes to football presenting

The Women’s Euro 2025 has officially kicked off, with an exciting tournament expected as the Lionesses strive to retain their European Champions title.

Wales have also made their first appearance in the competition, having qualified for the first time.

The tournament got underway on Wednesday, July 2, at the Arena Thun stadium and will host 34 matches before a champion is crowned.

England and Wales will join 14 other nations in the quest to lift the trophy on July 27.

The final will be held at St Jakob-Park stadium in Basel, Switzerland, conveniently located near the Eurovision final venue.

ITV has announced Laura Woods as part of its punditry team, following her successful stint covering major sporting events on the channel.

The 36 year old, originally from Dagenham in London, is also well-known for hosting talkSPORT’s breakfast show, where she formed a brilliant partnership with co-presenter Ally McCoist, reports Lancs Live.

Laura commanded the 6am-10am breakfast slot on talkSPORT for three years, during which she garnered several awards, including the esteemed ARIAS Best Speech Breakfast Show and the SJA Sports Presenter of the Year twice.

In July 2023, Laura revealed she was leaving talkSPORT to take up the role of lead presenter for TNT Sports’ Champions League and boxing coverage. She also covered the Olympics and some Premier League matches.

Laura embarked on her television career in 2009, beginning as a runner at Sky Sports before working her way through numerous positions within sports broadcasting.

She has now established herself as one of the most familiar figures in English football presentation, progressing through the ranks at Sky Sports to secure prominent roles as both presenter and touchline reporter for their Premier League coverage.

Laura’s expertise eventually led her beyond Sky Sports as demand for her presenting talents grew. She joined DAZN to front Women’s Champions League and Matchroom boxing coverage, whilst also spearheading ITV’s Women’s World Cup presentation.

Despite her passionate Arsenal allegiance, Laura was drawn to TNT Sports’ fan-focused philosophy.

Discussing her excitement about the position, she revealed: “I think the thing that sold me the most was they want to be near the fans, they want to be by the fans. And I think for me as a presenter, what I’ve really enjoyed is that rough and ready presenting. Going to the ground, being amongst the fans – it’s different, isn’t it? You can’t replicate it in a studio.”

Buy the new Lionesses Euro 2025 kit

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Fanatics

See the range

The Lionesses are among the favourites to win this summer’s Women’s Euros and the new official kit is out now. Fans can snag home, away and a new goalkeeper shirts in time for the tournament.

Laura’s family life

Away from the cameras, Laura and former Love Island star Adam Collard welcomed their first child together, son Leo Ernie Collard, in January 2025.

The pair went public with their romance in October 2023 before becoming engaged twelve months later in St Ives, Cornwall – described as the “place they fell in love”.

Last summer, Laura made the personal choice to keep her pregnancy under wraps while covering Euro 2024 for ITV, despite being in the know.

Speaking to The Times, she confessed: “It was constant, the morning sickness was quite difficult to battle and I was exhausted all the time.

“It didn’t matter how much sleep you actually got, you’d still be knackered. At least there were rest days when I was able to just chill out in my [hotel] room.

“I would have liked to keep it quiet for a little bit longer but I really felt like I couldn’t any more and now I’ve done it it’s a relief.”

Laura Woods’ rugby ex

Before finding love with her current partner Adam, Laura had a long-standing relationship with Alex Corbisiero, an ex-England rugby star known for his participation in the triumphant 2013 Lions tour of Australia.

The duo ended their eight-year romance, with Laura indicating that they were too close for comfort, leading to her decision to part ways.

Alex, who has celebrated Premiership glory, bravely battled testicular cancer diagnosed in 2019 and joyfully shared his two-year cancer-free milestone on social media in 2022.

He is currently imparting his expertise as a scrum coach for San Diego Legion and contributes to rugby broadcasting stateside.

AN abandoned stadium which once hosted pop icon Michael Jackson is in line for a multi-million-pound revamp.

And it could end up being one of the grounds used for UEFA Euro 2032.

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The tournament is set to take place in seven years, with Italy and Turkey sharing the host rights.

The Stadio Olimpico and San Siro are dead certs to stage matches during the competition.

But an abandoned ground built in the 1950s could also host games if a proposed renovation plan gets the green light.

The Stadio Flaminio on the outskirts of Rome is finally set to be renovated nearly 20 YEARS after proposals were first put forward.

The ground, which was built ahead of the 1960 Olympics, has become dilapidated in recent years and is currently full of overgrown grass and bushes.

The Flaminio’s current state is a far cry from when it was in its pomp and hosted the likes of music icons David Bowie, MJ and The Rolling Stones.

It’s not that long ago since the ground was regularly used.

From the year 2000 to 2011, it was the home of the Italian national rugby team and hosted a slew of Six Nations games in front of 30,000 spectators.

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The multi-million-pound plans to renovate the Stadio Flaminio will result in the ground becoming the new home of Serie A giants Lazio.

The renovation is expected to cost a whopping £334million (€391m).

Previous plans to renovate the stadium fell flat on their face due to archaeological constraints preventing additional facilities from being built in the surrounding areas.

Developers, however, plan to get around that hurdle with a three-hour “restricted traffic zone” ahead of kick-off and the commencement of other events.