The Changing Fan Sentiment
How did the admiration for Gareth Southgate’s waistcoats among fans turn into the act of hurling plastic beer cups towards him? From chanting, “Southgate, you’re the one” to a sense of disillusionment?
The bond between the England faithful and their manager has reached a breaking point during the ongoing Euro tournament.
“As a team, we’ve encountered various challenges in recent weeks,” remarked Southgate.
“I bear the responsibility of addressing these issues and steering the colossal entity that is the England football team in the right direction,” he added.
However, a defeat against Slovakia on Sunday would spell the end of Southgate’s tenure with England during Euro 2024.
This match marks his 99th game after eight transformative yet trophyless years in charge, at least until now.
Pic: PA
The Challenge Ahead
“Every day I wake up and contemplate our next steps,” Southgate expressed. “It’s an unprecedented challenge.”
Unlike Steve McClaren’s England in 2008, the current team has made it to the tournament without an early exit at the group stage, as witnessed during Roy Hodgson’s England campaign at the 2014 World Cup.
Southgate successfully reignited the passion for the England team among fans and players alike.
However, an underwhelming performance in reaching the last 16, with just one victory and two lackluster draws, has led to growing discontent.
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Keeping Perspective
There seems to be a lack of perspective. How often do England truly entertain in the group stages of tournaments? Even the 1966 World Cup victory began with dropped points.
The format of this 24-team Euros reduces the risk, ensuring a high likelihood of progressing to the knockout phase where the real excitement awaits.
It’s worth noting that Spain was the only team to secure three wins in their group.
Both Portugal and Italy, the last two trophy holders, faced defeats in the group stage. Even the host nation, Germany, dropped points.
Ironically, Italy, who triumphed over England in the final of the previous tournament, crashed out in the round of 16.
