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Harry Maguire says he "never feared for my international career" during a testing time on and off the field in the summer of 2020 that saw questions asked of him at Manchester United and with England.

The Red Devils defender was arrested during a break in Mykonos last August, before then being sent off during an outing for the Three Lions against Denmark in October.

High-profile misdemeanours led to calls for him to be dropped at club level and dumped by his country, but the 28-year-old defender has retained the full backing of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Gareth Southgate.

What has been said?

On his role in England's plans, with a spot in Euro 2020 earned after returning to form and fitness, Maguire told reporters: "I never feared for my international career. Without getting into too much detail of what went off last summer, I knew where I stood in regards to that.

"I always knew what went off. I’m totally over it. It was a tough time, for sure, but I’ve moved on.

"Gareth’s support of me has been brilliant since I made my debut for England. Ever since, when I’ve been available, I’ve pretty much played in every game possible. That gives me great confidence, belief and trust.

"Every time I step onto the pitch I'm trying to repay the faith and the trust.

"I’ve had lots of conversations, lots of texts, lots of phone calls from Gareth. And then speaking to him when I’ve come into camp he’s always there to help.

"It’s impossible to go through a career without having bad moments and making mistakes. Gareth passes on his experiences and the way he handles things and I’m always open to learning and improving.

"I can’t speak highly enough of Gareth and what he has done for me personally and the trust and faith he has put in me."

Making amends

England suffered a 1-0 defeat to Denmark in the contest that saw Maguire dismissed, but individual and collective wrongs can be put right on Wednesday when the two nations meet again in the last four of Euro 2020.

Maguire added on his last outing against the Danes and how he responded to that setback: "It was a challenging time but I am proud of the way I handled it and came through it.

"But four days before that game we had just beaten the number one ranked team in the world, Belgium, and I played 90 minutes and had a big part to play in that game.

“My touch was perhaps a bit off (against Denmark) – it was definitely off for the second booking I got. When I was walking off the pitch, of course I felt low. I felt like I was letting my team down.

"But mistakes happen and you bounce back and I am proud of the way I have handled myself from then on.

"It was important that I came back strong and performed well for Manchester United. I ended up scoring in a victory against Newcastle in our next match."

Further reading

Manchester United need to be tying Paul Pogba to a five-year contract or moving him on in the summer transfer window, says Paul Ince, with the former Red Devils midfielder growing tired of the transfer circus surrounding a star of the present.

Speculation regarding the future of a World Cup winner at Old Trafford is seemingly never far away, with rumours circulating across several years when it comes to his next move.

Pogba is now into the final year of his current deal, with that situation keeping the likes of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain interested, but fresh terms could still be thrashed out with the enigmatic 28-year-old.

What has been said?

Ince, who spent six years with the Red Devils in his playing days has, while speaking in association with Paddy Power, told Goal: "Paul Pogba hasn’t signed a new Manchester United contract, and we don’t know what’s in his mind.

"If he decides to stay, they should offer him five years, you can’t have annual disharmony with a player saying he wants to leave. 

"If you’re staying, stay and commit, show what a world-class player you are. If not, leave and let United use the money to bring in others.

"We’ve seen glimpses of Pogba’s true talent for France, and United occasionally. He performed very well at the Euros, but if you compare the French team with United’s, he’s playing with better players there.

"He came to United for big money, to be a talisman, but it just hasn’t worked out. If he gets back to his best, and United can put a couple of players with him, like Bruno Fernandes, I’d like to keep him.

"When Pogba plays for France, he’s in a holding position with N’Golo Kante. He gets more of the ball, and changes games. We don’t always see that at United."

Will Man Utd add in midfield?

Regardless of what happens with Pogba, Ince believes that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will look to bring another body into his engine room.

Juan Mata has signed a one-year contract extension, while Donny van de Beek remains on the club's books, but reinforcements are being sought across the field as Jadon Sancho arrives from Borussia Dortmund and interest is stepped up in Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.

Ince added: "Whether Paul Pogba goes or stays, Manchester United need another world-class midfielder. As much as I like Scott McTominay, and he’s going to get better, he’s still learning. They need someone world class now.  

"There are so many games to play in the Premier League and Champions League, so you need a big squad. 

"Will Donny van de Beek get an opportunity? He’s not had a chance at Old Trafford, and I feel sorry for him, remembering how good he was at Ajax. Coming to United should have been a dream move, but he’s not had the game time. Maybe if Pogba goes he will get that time."

Paul Ince is a EURO 2020 ambassador for Paddy Power, who is encouraging punters to change bookmaker as part of its ‘Switch for Better’ campaign. Switching to Paddy will secure free £5 Bet Builders on selected games throughout the tournament. For more details, visit the Paddy Power website. If the grass looks greener, go and play on it!

Further reading

AFC Leopards legend Charles Okwemba believes the club wasted a massive opportunity to reclaim their bragging rights by failing to 'squeeze' their sworn rivals Gor Mahia in the Football Kenya Federation Shield Cup final last Sunday.

After a goalless draw in regulation time, K'Ogalo went on to defeat Ingwe 4-2 in penalties to claim Mashemeji Derby bragging rights. Sydney Ochieng, Kenneth Muguna, Samuel Onyango, and Clifton Miheso scored for Gor Mahia while Washington Munene scored the only goal for AFC Leopards after Isaac Kipyegon and Said Tsuma were unable to convert their penalties.

But the former midfielder was left irked with Leopards' failure to defeat their sworn rivals to get an automatic ticket for the Caf Confederation Cup competition next season.

Where did it go wrong for Leopards?

"Positive attitude in matches is really important and it is what the players missed," Okwemba told Goal on Tuesday.

"The Mashemeji Derbies were a platform for me to make my name, and I grabbed the opportunity. This was a massive opportunity for the players to double their effort and squeeze Gor Mahia.

"They made chances, lots of them, but failed to use them. They would have continued pushing harder and ensure they get that chance of winning the trophy, the bragging rights, and ticket to play in the continentals."

Is everything lost for Leopards?

After Sunday's loss, it means Ingwe have absolutely no chance of playing in the continental competitions this season.

Tusker will represent the country in the Caf Champions League after finishing top of the Football Kenya Federation Premier League by June 30, which was the deadline.

"Yes, Tusker and Gor Mahia have the tickets to represent the country but it does not mean Leopards have been left with nothing to fight for," Okwemba continued.

"They still have the league title; Tusker got the ticket and not the league title. So Ingwe can give their best and win the league. The players must have hunger and determination to go all the way and win the league.

"It will be the best way possible to end the league."

Banyana Banyama international Thembi Kgatlana has changed clubs in Spain by signing for Atletico Madrid.

The 25-year-old, who impressed last season while turning out for SD Eibar, has now been unveiled as an Atletico player, with a contract that runs up to 2023.

“Thembi Kgatlana [May 2, 1995, South Africa] is a new Atletico Madrid player [with a contract] until 2023,” the club confirmed on their official website.

“The South African player, international for her country, arrives to reinforce the Rojiblanco attack.

“The 25-year-old South African is one of the most promising players of South African football, being named best African player in 2018."

The statement continued: "Trained at the University of the Western Cape, in 2018 she traveled to the United States to join the ranks of Houston Dash, a team in which she stayed at for a season until signing for Beijing BG Phoenix and later for Benfica.

“In 2020 she made the leap to the Spanish league by joining the SD Eibar squad, the team from which she comes.”

Speaking after sealing the transfer, Kgatlana said: “I am very happy to arrive at Atletico Madrid. As a footballer, you always dream of playing for the best clubs.

“My first goal is to be a team player and to work hard for the team. I am very happy to be able to join you soon, I can't wait to meet you all.”

Kgatlana signed from SL Benfica in the summer of 2020, after a season in the Chinese Women's Super League, where she netted nine times for Beijing Phoenix before moving to Portugal. 

Although the Banyana Banyana star failed to win silverware in her season in the Chinese capital, her individual contributions helped Beijing to a mid-table finish in 2019.

Since her move to Spain, the South African has proven herself to be a prolific goalscorer despite turning out for a lowly-rated Eibar, and last season she managed to score 10 goals in 21 matches in the Primera Division.

Raheem Sterling admits it has "not been an easy road for him" as an England international, with the Manchester City forward of the opinion that he has received a lot of "unfair flak".

The 26-year-old, who made his Three Lions bow back in 2012, is in the process of silencing his doubters again at Euro 2020 - with three goals recorded en route to the semi-finals.

Opinion has started to turn this summer on an international stage, but it has been a long road to this point for Sterling as he has often become a scapegoat for those looking to pick the pieces out of England failings.

What has been said?

Sterling, who has 66 caps to his name, told BBC Sport of his international career: "It's not been an easy road with the national team. 

"In the past, I would say unfair flak I would get before even touching a ball. As a young person it was difficult to deal with. 

"In life and in football, you tend to have to challenge yourself and take it for what it is. You can't be down on yourself, you have to push yourself even more, and that's what I have been doing. I think that is one of my best traits."

Tough times

Euro 2016 was a notable low for Sterling as he failed to find the target and was heavily criticised for his performances in a forgettable tournament for England.

He has bounced back from that, but admits that outside noise can impact his game, adding: "You try and perform your best and I never really understood it.

"These things can affect you. You might think it can't, but one comment that one person says - one journalist or one ex-footballer - it can be on your mind. 

"From that experience, I have taught myself not to look at these things."

The bigger picture

Sterling now boasts the medal collection at club level to quieten any critics, with three Premier League titles, four League Cups and an FA Cup collected with City.

His game has been taken to new heights by Pep Guardiola, with the target found on 93 occasions across the last four seasons.

He feels a point is being proved, saying of his form: "I have been performing for my club for the last three or four seasons, put in great numbers and won loads of trophies. 

"A lot of people don't understand what goes on behind closed doors and there is a lot more to football than just playing on a matchday. 

"It's not like you don't know how to play football or how to score goals."

Sterling and England will be back in action on Wednesday when facing Denmark in the last four of Euro 2020.

Further reading

Ghana skipper Andre Ayew believes fans will soon be excited about the national team again.

The Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup before getting eliminated from the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in the last 16 round.

However, the ex-Swansea City forward is confident the team will rediscover their best form.

"I believe deep inside me that every single Ghanaian loves the Black Stars," Ayew told Joy FM.

"You can love your wife and be angry, and I think that is the relationship between the Black Stars and the Ghanaians. The feeling I am having is that they are waiting for us to give them something to spark. I feel it is starting to come."

The Black Stars are among the teams that will be playing in the Afcon competition in Cameroon scheduled for early 2022.

"We will need the support from our nation. We cannot sit here and tell them we will win or they should bet we will win [the Afcon] but we need to feel they are behind us," Ayew continued.

"That is something we have to earn, and I believe we have started on the right track by qualifying for the Afcon and if we give them a good run in the World Cup qualifiers, the belief and confidence will be higher than it is currently."

Recently, Ayew was crowned with the Ghana Footballer of the Season Award. The forward had a good season with the Welsh outfit in the just-concluded Championship season.

The 31-year-old was directly involved in 21 goals the Swans scored in the league, finding the back of the net 17 times and providing four assists. He was also on target for the team in the promotion playoffs, scoring the only goal in the 2-1 aggregate loss to Brentford.

Ayew also played a vital role to ensure Ghana made it to the 2020 Africa Cup of Nations finals.

The striker beat Great Olympics captain Gladson Awako and Ajax attacker Kudus Mohammed to the title.

He succeeded Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey who had won the award the previous two times.

Tanzania giants Yanga SC have confirmed their interest to sign Gor Mahia midfielder Kenneth Muguna.

Goal can exclusively reveal the Jangwani giants have already approached the player and his representatives over a possible move ahead of the new Mainland Premier League season.

A source in the club, who did not want to be named, has told Goal: “We are keenly following Kenneth [Muguna] and what I can tell you is that we have already made contact.

What has been said?

“I cannot give further details on the transfer but it is good to know we have talked to the player and his agent and soon we will make a big announcement.

“We are working as per the list given out by the technical bench and already we have engaged very many players and it looks positive, we don’t want to sign players without the consent of the bench.”

At the start of this season, Muguna, who was the K’Ogalo captain before he was stripped off the captaincy which was handed to Harun Shakava, was close to signing for the Timu ya Mwananchi but the deal fell through.

Muguna has been the key player for Gor Mahia this season and he was in great form on Sunday as they defeated rivals AFC Leopards 4-1 on penalties to clinch the FKF Shield Cup and a ticket to the Caf Confederation Cup.

Yanga have also signed Shabani

Goal also understands Yanga have beaten rivals Simba SC to the signing of AS Vita right-back Djuma Shabani.

Wekundu wa Msimbazi were the first side to be linked with the Democratic Republic of Congo defender after he impressed during a Caf Champions League Group A fixture in Kinshasa.

It was later reported Simba opted out of the race to sign him when he was injured during a training session with the national team but as Simba's interest waned, Yanga came along to enquire about his availability and started talks that reached an advanced stage.

The same source has told Goal the deal is as good as sealed and the right-back will be unveiled soon.

“We will make a big announcement soon and I can confirm Djuma [Shabani] is also coming to Jangwani,” the source said. “Just wait for the unveiling ceremony, it will be soon.”

Eric Garcia is hoping to share a dressing room with Lionel Messi at Barcelona, but financial issues at Camp Nou are preventing both men from committing to contracts at Camp Nou.

The Liga giants have put agreements in place with a number of new additions, with deals lined up for Sergio Aguero, Emerson Royal and Memphis Depay.

Salary caps in Spain are proving problematic, though, with six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi becoming a free agent as he waits on funds to be freed up for fresh terms.

What has been said?

Speculation is continuing when it comes to the Argentine's future, but Garcia remains optimistic when it comes to playing alongside an all-time great in 2021-22.

The 20-year-old defender told Goal when asked if he expects Messi to sign a new deal: "Hopefully, yes. 

"You don't have to talk about how good he is, the best player there has ever been. Hopefully, I can share a dressing room with him."

What about Garcia's deal?

The highly-rated centre-half took the decision to return to his roots this summer after reaching the end of his contract at Manchester City.

He is, however, yet to be registered and claims to be unaware of how monetary problems will impact his arrival at Barca.

"I didn't know anything," he said when asked about sizeable obstacles behind the scenes.

Garcia added when asked if he has been in touch with the club president and first-team coach following the announcement of his switch: "With [Joan] Laporta, at the presentation. With [Ronald] Koeman, no."

What does the immediate future hold?

For now, Garcia's focus is locked on international commitments with Spain after he was called upon by Luis Enrique for Euro 2020 duty despite taking in just 12 appearances for City last season.

On that selection, Garcia said: "I had doubts because it is true that I have not played much, but the coach had always shown a lot of confidence in me. 

"When I saw that I was selected I was very happy. I am very grateful to Luis."

Garcia went on to say, with two starts made for Spain in their run to the semi-finals: "I am very grateful for the confidence that has been shown in me from the beginning.

"All the players want to play, but my situation was what it was and to come here and have minutes is something I did not expect. When I play, therefore, I try to be confident."

Spain will be back in European Championship action on Tuesday when facing Italy in a last-four showdown at Wembley Stadium.

Further reading

Leeds United have completed the £13 million ($18m) signing of Junior Firpo from Barcelona, with the defender signing a four-year contract at Elland Road.

The highly-rated left-back joins the Premier League outfit in the wake of Ezgjan Alioski's departure, with the Whites moving quickly to fill a hole in their back four.

Firpo has spent the last two seasons at Camp Nou, with 41 appearances taken in for the Liga giants.

What has been said?

Leeds have said in a statement released on their official website: "The Whites have beaten off competition from a number of clubs to secure the services of the 24-year-old, who joins from Spanish outfit FC Barcelona for an undisclosed fee.

"Following a period of quarantine and completion of his medical, the full-back signed a four-year deal at Elland Road, running until the summer of 2025.

"Born in the Dominican Republic, Firpo moved to Spain at a young age and made his breakthrough at Real Betis.

"Making his first La Liga start in February 2018 in Betis’ 1-0 victory over Deportivo La Coruna, the full-back went on to become a first-team regular at the Estadio Benito Villamarin.

"Catching the eye during the 2018-19 campaign, with five assists and three goals in his 29 appearances for Betis, Firpo was called into the Spain Under-21 squad and helped them win the 2019 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

"Following the tournament, in August 2019, he was snapped up by Barcelona, signing a five-year deal at the Nou Camp.

"Over the past two seasons, he turned out 41 times for Barcelona, helping them win the Copa Del Rey.

"Firpo becomes Leeds’ third signing of the summer transfer window and will wear the number three shirt during his time at Elland Road."

What did Barca have to say?

The Catalan heavyweights have revealed that a 20 per cent sell-on clause has been included in the deal that has taken Firpo to England, while also confirming the fee involved.

Goal had revealed last week that an agreement was on the cards for the promising defender.

Barca are in the process of moving fringe players out as they seek to free up space in their salary cap.

A number of exits are being mooted at Camp Nou that will allow new signings Memphis Depay, Sergio Aguero and Eric Garcia to be registered, while also tying talismanic captain Lionel Messi to a new contract.

Further reading

Marseille have signed Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi on a season-long loan with the option to buy.

Guendouzi, who joined the Gunners from Lorient in 2018 but spent the 2020-21 campaign out on loan at Hertha Berlin, confirmed he was leaving the north London club in a social media post on Monday.

He made 82 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions, scoring once, but has not played for the club since June 2020.

What was said?

A statement on Marseille's website confirming the deal read: "Matteo Guendouzi has signed up with Marseille for a one-year loan with an option to buy.

"Guendouzi is a modern midfielder, technically strong and with good passing ability. 

"A player of character, he has a good view of the game. These qualities he will undoubtedly be able to share with the Marseille team."

How much did Marseille pay for Guendouzi?

As reported by Goal last week, Marseille will pay a fee of £850,000 to take Guendouzi on loan for the coming season.

The French side will then pay around £9 million ($12m) to turn the move permanent in the summer of 2022.

In all, Arsenal will receive around £10m ($14m) for the France U-21 international.

The bigger picture

Guendouzi was a regular in the Arsenal side under Unai Emery, but found himself increasingly out of favour following the appointment of Mikel Arteta in December 2019.

He was dropped from the side during the restart last summer after an incident involving Brighton's Neal Maupay, with his manager later making it clear he was unhappy with the player's attitude.

Guendouzi would never play for the Gunners again, having been loaned out to Hertha Berlin for the 2020-21 campaign, and on Monday confirmed he was leaving Emirates Stadium after three years.

Will Arsenal replace Guendouzi?

As reported by Goal, the Gunners are hopeful of swiftly wrapping up a move for Anderlecht midfielder Albert Lokonga, who is expected to join for a fee of around £18m ($25m).

They have also agreed a £7m ($11m) deal with Benfica for left-back Nuno Tavares, who flew to London last week to complete his move to Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal and Marseille are also in talks over a loan move for William Saliba, with the young centre-back believed to be keen on a move to France.

Further reading

Arsenal are poised to make their first signing of the summer after agreeing a deal with Benfica for left-back Nuno Tavares.

The Portuguese starlet is set to undergo a medical before completing his move to Emirates Stadium, giving boss Mikel Arteta valuable cover at left-back for Kieran Tierney.

In case you were wondering who he was and what sort of player he is, Goal brings you everything you need to know about Arsenal’s incoming new signing.

Who is Nuno Tavares?

Nuno Tavares is a footballer who currently plays for Portuguese giants Benfica.

He was born in the Portuguese capital Lisbon on January 26, 2000.

After brief spells with Casa Pia and Sporting CP’s youth sides, he joined Benfica’s academy as a 15-year-old in 2015 before making his debut for the B team three years later.

He broke into the senior Benfica side at the start of the 2019-20 season, making his debut in a 5-0 win over city rivals Sporting to win the Portuguese Super Cup.

As of the 2020-21 season, Tavares made 41 senior appearances in all competitions, scoring once and laying on seven assists.

How much will Nuno Tavares cost Arsenal?

Arsenal have agreed to pay an initial fee of around £7m ($9.7m) for Tavares.

That fee could rise, however, by a further £1.5m ($2.1m) should certain clauses be met during Tavares’ stay at Emirates Stadium.

Why do Arsenal want to sign Tavares?

Goal's Arsenal correspondent Charles Watts: "Arsenal went into the window viewing the addition of a new left-back as a priority. While Kieran Tierney is the undisputed first choice on the left side of defence, the Gunners have no real natural back-up for the Scotland international.

"That cost them towards the end of last season when Tierney was injured, with Mikel Arteta having to move Granit Xhaka out of midfield to cover for his injured left-back.

"Arteta was keen to avoid a similar situation this season, so Arsenal have spent the past few months looking at potential understudies for Tierney, with Ryan Bertrand and Patrick van Aanholt two of the options considered.

"But Arsenal decided that bringing in a young left-back who they could develop over the next few years was the best option, with 21-year-old Tavares identified as a player with big potential, who is good with both feet and can even operate on the right if needed (as you can see in the video below)."

Use this link if video above does not play

Which position does Nuno Tavares play?

Tavares is viewed primarily as a strong, attacking left-back, who has excellent pace and athletic qualities.

He has occasionally filled in at right-back and left-midfield, but has spent the vast majority of his young career in the left full-back position.

The youngster is prone to the occasional error defensively, which is why he is arriving at the Emirates as a back-up with the opportunity to learn and develop as a footballer.

He will likely learn a lot from Scotland international Tierney, who has developed into a high-quality attacking left-back in recent seasons.

What national team does Nuno Tavares play for?

Tavares has represented Portugal at youth level, playing at U18 and U19 sides before making the first of his two appearances for the U21 side in September 2019.

While he has played Portugal at a number of levels, Tavares also has links to Cape Verde, though it is unclear whether he is eligible for the country.

What is Nuno Tavares' FIFA 21 rating & potential?

Nuno Tavares' overall rating in FIFA 21 is 72, with a potential of 83.

He has got a three-star skill moves rating. He prefers to shoot with his left foot and his workrates are High/Medium.

Tavares' best stats are: sprint speed (87), acceleration (85), shot power (79), stamina (78) and agility (77).

Tyren Arendse has openly criticised South Africa Football Association for making it easy for players to join the national team Bafana Bafana.

The 40-year-old midfielder, who featured for Santos FC, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Orlando Pirates in the PSL, believes getting into the Bafana Bafana squad is becoming one of the easiest things compared to during his playing time.

He has further put the blame on Safa for lacking structures and proper planning, something that has led to many changes occurring in the squad selection.

“The national team is a tricky situation and I just feel like in the last few years it has been too easy for people to get national team caps. There is no more value in getting that call-up,” said Arendse as quoted by Citizen.co.za.

“Yes, it’s a special moment for a player, but I think Safa has made it too easy for people to get into the national team because there is no structure, there is no plan. It’s sad, and obviously, the difficult thing again is that our players are not playing in top leagues.”

Arendse further believes lacking South African players plying their trades in top leagues in Europe had also contributed to the move adding that it has proven hard for Bafana to compete with the best in Africa.

“Before we used to have players playing in England, players playing in Spain and Germany that we could call up. Nowadays we don’t have that,” Arendse continued.

“As players, we have to challenge ourselves to get into those top leagues if we want to compete with the likes of Ghana, Senegal, and Nigeria. Because we will never be able to compete with them if we don’t have many players playing in top leagues.

“Your Ghanaians and those other top African national teams have their players competing in better leagues. No disrespect to the Scandinavian leagues – your Sweden, Norway, and others, but we can’t compete against the best if we don’t have players who are playing in the best leagues.

“Once Safa has a plan and a proper structure then we can probably see where we are going.”

Leonardo Bonucci has quipped that the joy of Italy's opener against Belgium in their Euro 2020 quarter-final victory was enough to cure Ciro Immobile of his "injury" after the striker simulated a knock in the first half in Munich on Friday.

The Lazio forward was the subject of widespread criticism for the incident in which he apparently dived in an attempt to win a penalty, feigning injury, before springing immediately back to his feet to celebrate Nicolo Barella's goal moments later.

Immobile's actions, alongside further accusations of poor gamesmanship from Roberto Mancini's side during the final half-hour at Allianz Arena, marred an otherwise shrewdly attractive performance from the Azzurri, but now vice-captain Bonucci has made light of the matter ahead of Tuesday's semi-final with Spain at Wembley.

What has been said?

"These are things that happen on the pitch," the Juventus centre-back told a pre-match press conference. "Ciro felt touched and went down.

"Then, the joy of a goal in matches like this, it is so great that it makes you forget any pain! We laughed on the pitch and we made fun of him [for it] but it ended there [for us]."

Bonucci pledges "faithful" game for fallen Spinazzola

Immobile's antics were overshadowed not only by the eventual result to an extent, but also the horrific injury suffered by defender Leonardo Spinazzola, who ruptured his Achilles tendon late in the second half to end his tournament prematurely.

It made for a strikingly cruel blow for the Roma man, one of Mancini's form players in their march to the semi-finals, and now Bonucci has vowed that Italy will stick to their core beliefs in order to reach a final for their team-mate.

"We have a very clear idea of our game and we will try to be faithful to ourselves throughout the match," he added.

"Our tradition and culture is to try and control the game. It will be difficult, but we have a strong defensive unit that can put Spain in trouble.

"We're proud of our national team. We want to reach the final for Leonardo Spinazzola, because of the cruel blow he suffered with his injury."

The bigger picture

Alongside captain Giorgio Chiellini, Bonucci remains one of the last holdouts of the Italy side that were thrashed 4-0 by La Roja in the European Championship final in 2012.

Tuesday's game presents a chance to not only reach a first major final since that night in Kyiv but to also gain a modicum of payback for the heartbreak of their rout.

If they succeed, they will return to Wembley five days later to face either England or Denmark, who meet on Wednesday in the other semi-final.

Further reading

Liverpool outcast Mark Grujic, who has taken in just 16 appearances for the Reds, admits to facing another uncertain summer at Anfield with the transfer window open for business.

The Serbia international midfielder became Jurgen Klopp's first signing when moving to Merseyside from Red Star Belgrade in January 2016.

He was immediately loaned back to his former club and has continued to tread a familiar path in the seasons since, with time spent at Cardiff, Hertha Berlin and Porto.

What has been said?

Ahead of returning to pre-season training, Grujic has told Sportske of his plans: "I will soon join Liverpool’s preparations, to do that basic part, so we’ll see the next step.

"We’ll see which club I’m going to play for, I don’t know at the moment, but as for the blue colours, I think I’ve done well in the last three seasons.

"Of course, it can always be better!"

Could Grujic return to Portugal?

With competition for places fierce at Anfield, Grujic linked up with Porto in October 2020 on a season-long loan.

He took in 36 appearances for the Portuguese giants across all competitions and has left the door open for a return to be made.

The 25-year-old added on his experiences with Porto in a coronavirus-impacted campaign: "I’m only sorry that I didn’t play in front of the fans.

"All my team-mates and people in the club say it’s a fantastic atmosphere, but my career is long and I’m sure I’ll have the opportunity to play at the Estadio do Dragao again."

The bigger picture

Liverpool have seen Georginio Wijnaldum depart this summer, with the Dutchman heading to Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent, while questions have been asked of how long Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will be sticking around.

Grujic, though, appears to remain some way down the pecking order and will expect to see new additions drafted in before he sees a slate wiped clean in English football.

Further reading

Zimbabwe have suffered a huge blow after their head coach Zdravko Logarusic was denied entry into South Africa ahead of the 2021 Cosafa Cup tournament.

With the tournament kicking off on Tuesday, the six-time champions arrived in South Africa on Monday but their coach Logarusic was denied entry at OR Tambo for lacking a visa.

A statement from Zimbabwe Football Association has confirmed the incident by stating: “The FA would like to inform the football fraternity and the nation that the Zimbabwe men's team, the Warriors left this Monday for Port Elizabeth, South Africa via Johannesburg for the upcoming Cosafa Cup.

“The team arrived safely in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The Association would however like to inform the nation that the head coach Zdravko Logarusic has been denied entry upon arrival at Oliver Tambo International Airport on the basis of him not holding a valid visa for the host country, South Africa.

“This is despite the fact that we confirmed with visa and travel agencies in Zimbabwe prior to departure and we were assured that as long he possessed a valid Zimbabwean workers permit; he would be allowed entry in South Africa.

“We were then dismayed upon arrival when we were told by Immigration officials that that only service and diplomatic holders from Croatia were exempt from South African visa requirements.

“This had not been anticipated by the Association and the travel agent has availed a letter of apology after this debacle. The Agent has also agreed to reimburse expenses resulting from this anomaly.

“Unfortunately, it is very clear that valuable training time has been lost as a result of this gaffe.

"The Association is now saddled with ensuring that the coach gets a visa and proceeds to join the team in Port Elizabeth in the shortest time possible.”

The federation has further confirmed assistant coach Tonderai Ndiraya will take charge of the team as they await the clearance of Logarusic.

“Meanwhile assistant Tonderai Ndiraya will prepare the team in the absence of Coach Lloyd Chitembwe who was never penciled to travel to South Africa as a result of his non-authorisation to travel to South Africa,” the statement continued.

“We apologise to the nation for the inconvenience, however, the team remains in high spirits and ready to compete to everyone’s best abilities. We would like to assure the nation that the Association is making frantic efforts to remedy the situation.”

Zimbabwe will open their title defence against Malawi on July 9.

Rio Ferdinand has revealed that Manchester United passed up the chance to sign Thiago Alcantara during the summer of 2013, with David Moyes favouring a move for Marouane Fellaini.

The classy Spain international midfielder was preparing to sever ties with Barcelona in that transfer window, with an exit from Camp Nou being sought amid fierce competition for places.

Interest from England was sounded out, with Ferdinand asked to nudge the Red Devils towards doing a deal, but recruitment advice was ignored and a man now at Liverpool ended up joining Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich.

What has been said?

Former United defender Ferdinand, who once played against Thiago, told Vibe with FIVE of a missed opportunity for the Red Devils: "Before Thiago left Barcelona he called me.

"He speaks fluent English and we had played against Barcelona in the United States on tour and he was unreal. He played as the number 10 and he scored a worldie.

"So we knew about him anyway and a few years later Moyes was manager. I don’t speak to Thiago, I don’t know him, but David de Gea gave him my number.

"So he [Thiago] rang me, and he said, ‘Rio, I would love to come to Man Utd, can you speak to someone?’

"He said to me, ‘I would like the opportunity to come to Man Utd, is there anybody that I could or you could speak to, to see the interest?’

"So I spoke to the people at the club… Moyes, it might have [also] been [Ed] Woodward, I mentioned it. [They replied], ‘no, we’re already down the line with a couple of other signings, it’s fine'.

"I think he was given 24 hours, Thiago, to make a decision. He ended up ringing me up next morning again, ‘I’ve slept on it, can you let me know about Man Utd, what’s going on?’.

"I asked again and he said again, ‘I’ve got 24 hours to make a decision otherwise Pep won’t take me to Bayern Munich’.

"He ended up going to Bayern Munich, and the rest is history. But what a guy, great guy."

The bigger picture

Thiago went on to spend seven years with Bayern, taking in 235 appearances.

He helped them to seven Bundesliga titles and a Champions League crown, with a move to England finally made after savouring European glory.

Jurgen Klopp snapped him up in the summer of 2020 as no new contract was going to be signed at the Allianz Arena.

Thiago endured a testing debut campaign at Anfield, with a bout of coronavirus and niggling injury issues working against him.

Questions were also asked of his ability to fit into Klopp's tactical system, but doubters were won over towards the end of 2020-21 as Liverpool secured a top-four finish.

Further reading

Andre Ayew believes Ghana have never had a more hard-working player than John Mensah.

The Black Stars captain, has described the burly defender, who earned 86 caps for the national team and scored three goals, as an exceptional leader.

“I don’t remember one game where somebody can say that John Mensah did not play well. Since I was in the Black Stars, I don’t recall,” Ayew told Joy FM as quoted by Footballghana.com .

“John Mensah was a different leader. He didn’t speak much. He was always calm in his corner but he spoke on the pitch.

“His performance on the pitch will make you understand what he is telling you. He had respect from everyone but mainly because he used to perform on the pitch when he wore the Black Stars jersey.”

In a recent interview, the 31-year-old Ayew, who is currently unattached after leaving Swansea in June following the expiration of his contract, has stated he is in no rush to decide his next club.

Ayew, who previously has been linked with a transfer move to Brighton & Hove Albion in England and former French club Olympique Marseille said on Monday: "There are a lot of things in the pipeline in various leagues. I feel that I have what it takes to play in the best divisions, whether it is in England or France, or Italy…I don’t have a particular place [for now].

“There are also offers coming in from the Gulf, the Asia side, etc…So I need to take my time and make the right decision for me, but also for the nation with all [Afcon and World Cup qualifiers] we have coming ahead.

"I will take my time, look at it very well, and hopefully, sooner than later we will all be clear on something because I know that my fellow brothers and sisters, all Ghanaian people are waiting for that with a lot of impatience."

Ayew joined Swansea in 2015 and he later returned to the club in 2018 for a second spell and in his last two seasons at Liberty Stadium, he managed to score 35 goals combined.