England national football team coach Gareth Southgate remained calm despite the “disappointment” of the friendly loss to Iceland 0-1, on Friday in preparation for the European Football Cup.
Southgate, whose team is considered one of the most prominent candidates to win the continental title in Germany starting June 14, said, “Of course, what happened today is a disappointment. I understand people’s reaction. But I have to remain calm, because I know the reasons (for the loss). I know what we must do this week.” “Next.”
The runner-up of the last edition, summer 2021, gave a modest performance at Wembley Stadium and received boos from its fans, after the last match of the Three Lions team before the start of the continental finals.
Southgate added in a press conference, “Our lines have to be more close together, press, and translate opportunities,” expressing his annoyance at the actions of his players when the ball is in the opponent’s possession.
The coach, whose contract was not renewed after the England national team, added, “Confusion may sometimes prevail over the matches before the finals because the players fear injuries.”
The draw placed England in the finals in a third group that included Denmark, Slovenia and Serbia.
Southgate was content to give some players time to participate and monitor the youngsters who played less international matches.
On the other hand, he expressed his fear about the fitness of some people. “The physical aspect is worrying.”
The England national team is considered one of the favorites to win the title with the presence of players such as Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.
In turn, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice said, “To lose 0-1 at home before the European Cup is not ideal. But there are a lot of collective lessons that can be learned.”
As for Anthony Gordon, who played on the left side, he acknowledged the decline in his team’s offensive quality.
The Newcastle player added, “In the European Cup, teams will face us this way, so we have to learn how to penetrate (the defence).”
England’s loss came against a team ranked 73rd in the world rankings and did not succeed in qualifying for the continental championship.
England has never won the European Cup, and is still panting for its biggest title since winning the 1966 World Cup on home soil, and hopes that Southgate, who has been in office for eight years, will lead it to the awaited coronation.
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