Gareth Southgate has a blunt response to being quizzed whether Round of 16 game could be his last for England

Gareth Southgate has also been criticized over his selection strategies, and the team's newfound problems in midfield and attack.

Gareth Southgate has a blunt response to being quizzed whether Round of 16 game could be his last for England

Gareth Southgate provided blunt answers on exit from England. (via IMAGO)

England manager Gareth Southgate provided a blunt response while dismissing rumors of the team’s last-16 match against Slovenia being his last match in charge. He has faced significant criticism for the team’s disappointing performance at the Euros.

The Three Lions qualified for the knock-out stages of the 2024 Euros as group winners, but were severely criticized for their lackluster performances during the group stage. The team drew consecutive matches against Slovakia and Denmark. Following a goalless draw with Slovenia, some English fans booed and threw cups at manager Gareth Southgate. There have been repeated calls from fans to sack the 53-year-old manager.

The English manager, however, had a straightforward response when asked about rumors of the Slovakia clash to be his farewell game. Speaking to reporters before the match, Southgate downplayed questions about his future, expressing satisfaction with his current role and focusing on winning the upcoming game. Moreover, he added that he has no pressing commitments in England and is enthusiastic about staying with the team for a few more days.

FS Video
I'm enjoying being here. I want to be here for another fortnight. I've got nothing to rush back for. I'm looking forward to a few more days here.
Gareth Southgate on exit rumors (via BBC)

Recent rumors suggest that the England manager could opt for managerial positions in the Premier League after his eight-year-long stint with the national team ends. He is expected to depart following the conclusion of the 2024 Euros in Germany.

Gareth Southgate shares important Luke Shaw injury update ahead of Euro knockouts

England boss Gareth Southgate confirmed that the team’s first-choice left-back Luke Shaw is still not fit enough to start against Slovakia in the round of 16 of Euro 2024. The Manchester United player is still recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in February.

Gareth Southgate on Luke Shaw injury
Gareth Southgate provided an update on Luke Shaw’s injury. (via IMAGO)

In the absence of the team’s primary left-back, Southgate had to deploy right-back Kieran Trippier in that role. While remaining hopeful about Shaw’s recovery, Southgate confirmed to reporters that Shaw would not be in the starting lineup, though he expressed optimism about possibly substituting him in.

Luke Shaw is not available to start but everyone else is all good. We will have a chat with the medical staff to see whether he can play a part. We have to deliver it.
Gareth Suthgate on England left-back Luke Shaw (via The Mirror)

The 28-year-old is the only left-back Southgate decided to name in his final squad for the tournament, a decision he has been fiercely criticized for. Many have called him out for omitting Ben Chilwell.

In case you missed: