Gareth Southgate’s Permission for Players’ Families to Reunite with Squad After Each Match Receives Backing

During major tournaments, the England team’s WAGs (Wives and Girlfriends) have often been a distinctive feature off the pitch and in the stands. Despite some media criticism that their presence could negatively impact team preparations, England manager Gareth Southgate has persistently allowed families into the camp after each group match, a decision that has been well received by the players.

According to The Mirror, Southgate adopts a relaxed approach to family visits, believing that some downtime is essential. The England squad is based at a luxurious golf resort with state-of-the-art facilities during the Euros, but its remote location led Southgate to permit WAGs to enter the training base after each group game to spend time with the players. Following the opening group match against Serbia, all family members were invited, though not all took up the offer.

In 2006, during the World Cup in Germany, the WAGs almost stole the spotlight. Unlike the raucous scenes at the 2006 base camp, this year’s Euro visits from families have been more orderly. Forward Watkins expressed his satisfaction with the team’s arrangement: “It’s great to have the family around, of course. Our staff have worked hard to create opportunities for our families to be with us during downtime, and it feels good. Being away from home and not seeing your loved ones and kids for extended periods can be tough, so it’s fantastic that the team has made this possible.”