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Stones hails 'special' bond with Maguire

John Stones has hailed his "special" relationship with Harry Maguire ahead of England’s World Cup campaign.

Maguire’s likely selection in the starting XI for the Three Lions’ opening game against Iran has been a hot topic of conversation, with the defender having barely featured for Manchester United this term.

But Stones has thrown his weight behind his centre-back partner with less than a week until Gareth Southgate’s men kick off their campaign.

Manchester City ace Stones said: "I’ve been through periods of difficulty and it's never easy.

"He is a person who is not willing to give in. He is a top player, an incredible person. I admire him, his mentality. 

"It's not about proving people wrong. He will prove to himself coming out the other side of this that he has stayed true to what he believes in and is fighting for.

"We have trust in each other and that comes with playing loads of games together, forming that partnership. We know each other's strengths and weaknesses and can combat those. We have been through some big experiences together. They are memories that will stay with me for ever.

"What we have done, how we fight through adversity — especially in some games — and how we have each other's back is very special."

Ramsey: We will shine light on Qatar issues

Aaron Ramsey has confirmed Wales plan to shed a light on the issues in Qatar at the World Cup.

The 31-year-old midfielder will be a key figure as the Welsh take part in the tournament for the first time since 1958.

And while he knows they are there primarily to play football and make their country proud, Ramsey and his team-mates will not shy away from the controversies overshadowing the next month.

He said: "We disagree with a lot of things going on over there [in Qatar].

"As an organisation, we've made our stance very clear on that. The FAW has been working closely with the government, FIFA and other things to try and move things forward.

"As players, we'll be wearing that armband and showing our support, and hopefully highlighting other issues over there as well.

"But ultimately we're there to play football and to represent our country at a World Cup."

Wales kick off their campaign against the USA on Monday before games against Iran and England.

Carvalho ditches Portugal

Liverpool wonderkid Fabio Carvalho has dumped Portugal by text ahead of their Under-21s games this weekend.

Carvalho, 20, has been capped four times by the U-21s, but the Portuguese FA revealed he has rejected his latest call-up.

The Fulham academy product has lived in England since 2013 and played for the Three Lions U-17s.

Following the brief and terse statement from Portugal, there is now hope he may play for England at senior level.

The statement said: "A footballer has decided to give up representing the Portuguese Under-21s team.

"Fabio Carvalho informed the Portuguese Football Federation, through some SMS messages, that he does not intend to continue representing Portugal at Under-21s level.

"This decision by the player was communicated after the call-up for friendlies against Czech Republic and Japan was made."

Lennon retires aged 35

Aaron Lennon has announced his retirement from football at the age of 35.

The ex-Tottenham and England winger has been without a club since leaving Burnley in the summer and has called time on his career.

Capped 21 times by England, Lennon played 364 times for Spurs after starting at Leeds and also had a spell at Everton.

Lennon said: "Having weighed up my options, I didn't feel any were right for me and my young family.

"It has been a very tough decision as football has been my life since probably the age of three and the last 20 years playing professionally at the very top has been amazing.

"I loved every minute of it! Football means so much to me and always will do.

"I don't think I even realised how much until I started considering this retirement, it has been everything and more."

Lennon went on to thank his family, agent and all the players and coaches he worked with during his 19-year career.

He added: "I loved each and every one of the clubs and fanbases and I know that doesn't happen for many players so I'm very grateful.

"Now I'm very excited for this next chapter in my life and spending a lot more time with my loved ones.”