Gareth Southgate breaks silence on English team getting booed after their game against Slovenia: “I understand the narrative…”

Gareth Southgate understood the criticism aimed at him and felt it was preferable for him to handle it rather than the players.

Gareth Southgate breaks silence on English team getting booed after their game against Slovenia: “I understand the narrative…”

Gareth Southgate responds to being booed by English fans after match against Slovenia. (via IMAGO)

England manager Gareth Southgate responded to criticism directed toward the national team amid a string of poor performances at the 2024 Euros. The 53-year old talked about the unusual environment after being booed off the ground by fans following the match against Slovenia.

The Three Lions managed to secure the top spot in Group C at the Euros, but have failed to impress despite having their best players. They were held to a goalless draw with Slovenia in Cologne last night, as they ended their group stage campaign with a meager five points from three matches. After the match, English fans booed the team as they left the field, and some threw empty beer cups at manager Gareth Southgate.

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The 53-year old manager faced the ire of disgruntled fans as he approached them after the final whistle. Speaking to reporters later, Southgate acknowledged the situation, emphasizing the need to support the team and accepting the criticism. However, he mentioned that it creates an unusual environment for him and the players to work in, as no other qualifying team has faced similar scrutiny. Despite the challenges, Southgate ensured fans of progress and better performance.

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I understand the narrative towards me and that's better for the team than it being towards them. But it is creating an unusual environment to operate in. I've not seen any other team qualify and receive similar.
Gareth Southgate on being booed by English fans (via BBC)

There have been calls from various sides for the England manager to be fired at the end of the season, owing to his erroneous strategies and tactics. During his eight-year tenure as the Three Lions manager, the team has not secured any trophies.

England legend Michael Owen takes a dig at Gareth Southgate’s approach

Ex-England legend Michael Owen, who excelled at Liverpool, questioned the Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate’s tactics amid England’s poor run at the Euros. The former Ballon d’Or winner emphasized that the team’s strength lies in the attack, but Southgate was relying too much on a defensive set-up.

Michael Owen on Gareth Southgate
Michael Owen questioned Gareth Southgate’s approach for the England national team. (via IMAGO)

Speaking to FirstPost, the former Real Madrid star acknowledged disagreeing with Southgate’s team selection for the tournament. He questioned the manager’s use of two midfielders, rather than one. Additionally, he believed the team should prioritize its attacking strength, proposing a formation with Declan Rice as the No. 6, two midfielders in advanced roles, two wingers, and Harry Kane at the front.

I knew coming into the tournament that I would be disagreeing with his team. I think our strength is our attack. And how many players we can have that affect games. 
Michael Owen on Gareth Southgate’s tactics (via FirstPost)

Moreover, Owen urged the current England players to shoulder greater responsibility for their performances, emphasizing that they are the ones who take to the field.

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