The 56-year wait goes on for a trophy for the England Men’s National Team, as they were outclassed in a 2-1 defeat to Spain in the 2024 European Championship final in Berlin.
Congratulations to Luis de la Fuente’s side, who have been superb in this tournament.
Not many people them down as favourites, but they have exceeded expectations.
Now, let’s get back to the Three Lions, or should we say the ‘Three Pussycats’?
First of all, why are we relying so much on Harry Kane, who has not been fit throughout this tournament?
I feel quite sorry for him, as Southgate has left him out to dry.
He did get subbed off for Ollie Watkins at half-time but many would argue that the Aston Villa forward should have started or Ivan Toney.
Why Toney came on in the 89 minutes is a mystery in itself, and shows how tactically naive Southgate is as a Manager.
Why has Spain won this tournament?
They have played players who are fit, in form, and played as a team, unlike England who have relied on individuals to step up when it matters.
That’s why you have to point a finger at Southgate for his naivety in selecting the XI.
Sometimes he is too predictable in selecting the same crop of players in his starting XI for every game.
The only changes he has made, are Kieran Trippier for Luke Shaw, and Kobbie Mainoo, for Connor Gallagher and Trent Alexander-Arnold for the Number 8 position.
Another thing that is baffling, is how poorly the team had started every game.
Why is it that the team has to go a goal down, to start playing to their potential?
Is it the fear of failure or tactics?
The most likely answer would be both.
But then it’s Southgate’s job to instil the mentality of starting the game on the front foot, which he has not done consistently.
Why does he allow Jordan Pickford to always kick the ball long, without the audacity to be brave and make the team play out from the back?
99% of the clubs that these players play for, dare to continuously do that, even when they are a goal down.
Yet Southgate still reverts to sitting back when the team scores and invites the pressure back on his team to defend for their lives.
That is why although he has done an incredible job of making the Nation believe that we can win something, he hasn’t got the team over the line.
That is why the FA should consider letting someone else have a go. Someone who can get the best out of these payers in terms of a tactical basis.
For more information on Gareth Southgate and England, visit World In Sport.
