Football News: Southgate’s Late Substitution Paves Way for England’s Dramatic Euro 2024 Comeback
In a thrilling Euro 2024 last-16 clash, England manager Gareth Southgate has revealed that striker Ivan Toney has “just about forgiven him” for the manager’s late introduction of the Brentford star.
England’s Comeback Clinched by Toney’s Impact
England were trailing Slovakia 1-0 when Southgate finally brought on Toney in the fourth minute of injury time, despite having two substitutions remaining at that point. The 28-year-old forward clearly felt he could have made a greater impact had he been introduced earlier, as he expressed his displeasure with the timing of his introduction.
“It’s obviously going to be annoying not playing, but you have to be ready and everyone’s going to be needed throughout this tournament.”
However, Toney’s presence on the pitch proved crucial, as his clever play helped set up Jude Bellingham‘s overhead kick that leveled the scores in the dying seconds of regular time. Toney then headed the ball across goal for Harry Kane to score the winner in extra time, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory for England.
Southgate Acknowledges Toney’s Frustration
Southgate acknowledged Toney’s initial frustration, stating, “I could just tell from his face what he was thinking and I could understand it.” The manager explained that he knew the timing wasn’t ideal but believed Toney could still make a difference, saying, “I know this isn’t a good time and I know it’s not how you’d like it, but there could be one moment.”
Toney echoed Southgate’s sentiments, telling talkSPORT, “It’s obviously going to be annoying not playing, but you have to be ready and everyone’s going to be needed throughout this tournament.” The striker went on to say that he felt the team had momentum towards the end and was happy to play his part in the comeback.
Upcoming Challenges for England
England’s attention now turns to a quarter-final clash with Switzerland on Saturday, a match that will be broadcast live on talkSPORT. The dramatic victory over Slovakia has set the stage for an exciting continuation of England’s Euro 2024 campaign.
As the tournament progresses, football enthusiasts can stay tuned to talkSPORT for comprehensive coverage of the Euro 2024, Champions League, FIFA World Cup, Women’s World Cup, Africa Cup of Nations Standings, Premier League, EFL Cup, EFL Championship, EFL One, EFL Two, and FA Cup.
🔗 Source