England’s Euro 2024 qualifying campaign is in full swing, and the team is looking stronger than ever. With a maximum of 12 points at the halfway stage, England’s bid to reach next summer’s finals is all-but a formality now. The team’s recent 7-0 win over North Macedonia was a testament to their strength and determination, with Bukayo Saka’s hat-trick, two goals by Harry Kane, and strikes from Marcus Rashford and Kalvin Phillips sealing the thumping victory.
Learning from Past Mistakes
It’s a far cry from this time 12 months ago when Three Lions fans were calling for Gareth Southgate’s head following a Nations League humiliation at the hands of Hungary. However, Southgate has learned from past mistakes and has been able to turn things around for the team. Speaking about the experience, Southgate said: “We learned a lot through that process, but I think our performances at the World Cup and particularly since the World Cup have been outstanding.”
The Sweet Spot
Southgate is often criticized for his ‘safe’ style of football, but he is never one to get ahead of himself in interviews with the media. Even he admitted that his players are doing all the right things. Speaking about the team’s momentum, he said: “Well, we’ve got to make it that way. We’ve made it quite clear that that’s our aim, and we’re capable of doing it. There are good signs, we’ve got competition for places which is key because you need that.”
Competition for Places
Southgate knows that competition for places is key to success, as it provokes more out of each individual when there’s someone sitting in the stand that’s desperate to get on. He said: “People won’t always be available so you need people who are ready to step in and carry the baton.” This competition for places is evident in the team’s recent performances, with players like Bukayo Saka stepping up to the plate and delivering hat-tricks.
Dreaming of Football Coming Home
England fans will be dreaming that football will finally come home again in 2024. Gabby Agboblahor, a talkSPORT presenter, was blown away by England’s recent performance and said: “If we don’t win the Euros with this squad of players then Mr Waistcoat needs arresting for crimes against football! It’s has to come home!” While Southgate is never one to get ahead of himself, he did admit that the team has the momentum to do something special.
Harder Nights Ahead
Despite the team’s recent success, Southgate knows that there will be harder nights ahead. He said: “There are other teams that are at a very high level and there are going to be some bumps on the way to doing that. You’ve got to respond and adapt to everything. There are a lot of healthy signs, but we also know that there will be harder nights than tonight.”
Conclusion
England’s Euro 2024 qualifying campaign is in full swing, and the team is looking stronger than ever. With competition for places and a hunger to succeed, the team is capable of doing something special. While there will be harder nights ahead, England fans will be dreaming that football will finally come home again in 2024.