S Poddar
Gareth Southgate addressed the intense criticism of the England team at Euro 2024, particularly after fans reacted angrily to another lackluster performance. Despite this, England secured their spot in the last-16 as winners of Group C, though they risked a potential matchup against Germany had Denmark beaten Serbia.
England will now face one of the best third-placed teams on Sunday, likely the Netherlands, avoiding early clashes with heavyweights like Germany, France, Spain, and Portugal. This should ideally boost hopes for a deep tournament run. However, concerns about England’s struggling attack and midfield persist, although Kobbie Mainoo’s introduction at halftime to replace Conor Gallagher did provide some relief.
Southgate, along with Harry Kane and Declan Rice, had already faced criticism ahead of the Slovenia match. Post-game, Southgate had to defend his team once more after receiving an angry response from some fans while he went to applaud them.
“I understand the frustration,” Southgate said. “The most important thing is for the supporters to stay with the team. Criticism towards me is better than towards the players, but it creates an unusual environment. I’ve not seen any other team qualify and receive similar treatment. I’m very proud of how the players are handling it.”
When asked why the atmosphere feels different compared to previous tournaments, Southgate attributed it to heightened expectations. “We’ve made England fun again and it’s been very enjoyable for the players. We’ve got to ensure it stays that way.”
England’s performance at Euro 2024 has been frustrating, with three uninspiring matches so far. A disallowed first-half goal due to Phil Foden being offside in the buildup to Bukayo Saka’s tap-in highlighted their struggles to meet pre-tournament expectations. However, there were some positive signs, particularly in their pressing out of possession, which Southgate emphasized.
“We were much improved with the ball,” he noted. “We created good openings, but it’s been hard work for us – we’re not getting that break in front of goal. The substitutes made a significant impact, and we kept a clean sheet, which allowed us to win the group. I understand some reactions, but it’s a strange environment we’re playing in.”
Southgate dismissed the notion that England has an easier path in the tournament, warning against complacency. He remains optimistic, especially with positive performances from substitutes like Mainoo and Cole Palmer, and believes the team is starting to come together.
“We had a lot of issues coming into the tournament, but players like Marc Guehi and the defense have been huge positives. We looked more dangerous today and had a good impact from our subs. Now we need to convert those chances,” Southgate concluded.
