Football News Update: Euro 2024, Champions League, and More
Gareth Southgate Rallies England Fans Ahead of Euro 2024 Quarter-Final
Gareth Southgate has attempted to rally the nation behind his England team at Euro 2024, reminding fans that the memories of past tournaments like Italia 90 and Euro 96 have become more cherished over the years, despite the difficulties experienced at the time.
England have set up a quarter-final clash against Switzerland on Saturday after a heart-stopping 2-1 win over Slovakia on Sunday. Southgate is grateful for the mini-break to recalibrate his players, many of whom were shattered after extra time against Slovakia, with some carrying knocks and bruises.
“Southgate, who was an England player at Euro 96, knows that all teams will suffer challenges during major tournaments. However, he believes that if England can get behind potential turning points, they have the possibility to write a glorious script.”
Jude Bellingham’s 95th-minute bicycle-kick equalizer against Slovakia was one such moment, paving the way for Harry Kane’s extra-time winner.
The England manager will reach 100 matches against Switzerland, but he says the milestone is not on his mind. Instead, he is focused on the fitness of his players, with Bellingham and Kane described as being “out on their feet” before their substitutions, and Marc Guéhi also completing the full 120 minutes.
Southgate has also had fitness concerns over other players, including Kieran Trippier and John Stones, while goalkeeper Jordan Pickford feared he had dislocated his finger in the warm-up against Slovakia. The England boss is hoping a couple of rest days will be beneficial for his squad.
As the team prepares for the quarter-final against Switzerland, Southgate has praised the “phenomenal” composure of Kobbie Mainoo in midfield and the “uninhibited style” of Cole Palmer, who he introduced in the second half against Slovakia. The manager has also highlighted the important contributions of unheralded players like Eberechi Eze, Ivan Toney, Ezri Konsa, and Conor Gallagher, saying their efforts in preparing the team have been crucial.
Southgate believes that winning with all the top players on the pitch is one thing, but winning with the squad players who have stepped up in critical moments can build a strong team spirit, which will be vital as England continue their journey at Euro 2024.
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