Gareth Southgate Hits Back at Critics: Fans Live in the Past, but We Have a Chance to Write New History

After securing a spot in the quarter-finals of the Euros, England’s manager Gareth Southgate spoke out, saying that fans tend to dwell on past memories while his current team still has the opportunity to shape new ones.

In the 1996 Euros, as hosts, England had a rocky start with a 1-1 draw against Switzerland, followed by a 4-1 victory over the Netherlands to advance. Despite narrowly defeating Spain in the quarter-finals, they were knocked out by Germany in the semis. Yet, in the minds of English fans, the tournament has become an iconic one.

Southgate, who was part of the 1996 squad, recalled, “Everyone now looks back through different eyes, but we didn’t perform well in that tournament.”

Referring to this year’s Euros, he said the team is still progressing, “The standout player (Bellingham) has influenced the course in his own way, giving us another chance.”

Looking ahead to their next opponents, Switzerland, Southgate remained cautious, “They’re consistently solid, have good rotation, and once they take the lead, they’re hard to beat. They’ve got good defenders, fast strikers.”

He also highlighted the depth of his squad, “Many substitutes are contributing and waiting for their chance. We’ll find the right combinations, and there’s no doubt about the team’s unity.”

Despite external criticism, reports suggest an immense sense of unity within the England camp, with players fully supporting Southgate. Goalkeeper Pickford remarked, “Fans want us to win, and so do we. But every game is tough, you have to be patient. We’re enjoying it, and we must stay positive.”

Regarding the possibility of a penalty shootout against Switzerland, Pickford stated that while the manager hasn’t specifically prepared, he will practice saving penalties himself, “If you want to win trophies, extra time and penalties are part of the curriculum.”