Since Gareth Southgate's appointment as the manager in 2016, English football fans have experienced a tumultuous relationship with him. Under his leadership, the national team has achieved significant milestones, including reaching the Euro 2024 finals consecutively and a semifinal finish at the 2019 World Cup.
In an exclusive interview former Liverpool player Mark Seagraves praised Southgate’s contributions but argued that he should step down, even if England clinches the tournament victory.
“I think he should step down. He's had enough time to do what he's been doing. He's obviously brought the team on to such a level. But he needs to win, doesn't he? He needs to win this. If he doesn't win it, he's definitely out but even if he does win it he should resign and you know he's talking about where it can go now he's had a lot of good squads underneath him for the last eight to ten years that he's been in charge he's revolutionised English football in terms of internationally and how they are professionally and I think it's time for him to bow out," Seagraves shared.
The 53-year-old previously mentioned that he wouldn’t continue as England's manager if his team didn’t succeed in the 2024 Euros. However, recent reports from ESPN indicate that the England FA wants him to remain in his role until at least the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Much of the criticism aimed at Southgate centers not just on results but also on the style of play he employs. The team is often characterized by a defensive approach, having scored only seven goals in six matches during the tournament, in contrast to Spain's 13.
"You've got to have every part of your team ready to be able to do what they're for. All three elements of defense, midfield, and attack, they all have to be on song, and I've listened to both managers saying that 'for us to win, the tournament our teams have to play to the hundred per cent' and that's going to be the case of course on Sunday whoever doesn't turn up doesn't win the game," Seagraves added ahead of the eagerly anticipated final.
Fans can catch the UEFA EURO Final between Spain and England on July 15 at 12:30 AM IST, live on Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD (Malayalam & Bengali), and Sony Sports Ten 4 SD & HD (Tamil & Telugu).
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