Following Newcastle’s relegation from the Premier League, some senior players will have been looking to the upcoming European Championships in France as a welcome distraction from such domestic failures. However, with just one member of the Newcastle squad having been selected to take part this summer, players will now have an extended break in which to reflect on what has been a dreadful season at St James’ Park. Despite failing to light up the Premier League with his performances this season, Moussa Sissoko will be the sole representative for Newcastle, having earned a place in Didier Deschamp’s French squad, as the host nation look to claim a first piece of silverware since 2000.
Sissoko has been ever present for France over recent years, and will go to Euro 2016 battling it out with among others, former Newcastle star Yohan Cabaye for a starting place in the French midfield. Euro 2016 is going to be a betting extravaganza. Sissoko’s France are currently among the favourites in the Euro 2016 betting odds, and will certainly fancy their chances come the tournament.
Elsewhere, Andros Townsend can perhaps consider himself unfortunate to miss out on a place with England. Having moved to St James’ Park in the January transfer window, the former Tottenham man’s performances have been one of few positives for Rafa Benitez’s side. Despite having initially been selected for Roy Hodgson’s provisional squad for the summer, Townsend was given just thirteen minutes over two fixtures in which to impress, before eventually failing to make the cut. In the absence of Townsend, why not make the use of free bets from Bell Internet Limited and back outsiders England for glory this summer.
Also missing out on a place for their respective countries, are Paul Dummett and goalkeeper Rob Elliott. Despite having failed to earn an international cap to date, many were tipping Dummett to earn a call up for Wales as a result of his ability to play in a number of different positions. As for Elliot, despite earning 4 caps for Ireland throughout his career, former Newcastle man Shay Given is preferred by manager Martin O’Neill.