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Gareth Southgate is grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of nearly 100 matches as the England manager, as he gets ready for a rematch of the game that marked the beginning of his journey seven years ago.
After rejecting the Football Association’s first offer following Euro 2016, the former Under-21s manager was unexpectedly appointed as the head coach following Sam Allardyce’s hasty and shameful departure.
In October 2016, Daniel Sturridge and Dele Alli helped secure a 2-0 win in a World Cup qualifier against Malta, which was Southgate’s first game as temporary manager.
On Friday, the small Mediterranean team will make a comeback to Wembley for the first time since then. This will also mark the 90th time the England manager has led a senior international match.
“I am knowledgeable about the statistics and I am aware that Bobby Robson had 95 games,” stated Southgate.
“If you had told me during our first game against Malta that this would happen, I’m not sure how I would have reacted.”
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“It has been an honor to have been a part of numerous games, resulting in unforgettable experiences and extraordinary evenings throughout our journey.”
“I am thrilled to be included among the individuals who have achieved such a high number of games.”
I am delighted to be among the names that have achieved such a high number of games.
Southgate is well on his way to being the first England manager to reach 100 matches, a milestone last achieved by Sir Alf Ramsey. This could potentially happen during the knockout phase of Euro 2024.
However, the main focus for Germany’s coach is winning silverware instead of achieving personal milestones, especially with the possibility of this being his last tournament in charge.
Despite securing qualification for the Euros with two games remaining, England will still have a sold-out Wembley Stadium for their unbeaten home game on Friday.
Southgate desires to conclude the match against Malta in a memorable fashion, following a tumultuous preparation period in which five players were unable to participate due to injuries, two were absent for personal reasons, and three players who have not yet competed at the international level were selected.
“We aim to perform strongly,” stated Southgate. “We have nearly 90,000 spectators attending – this will be our final home game of the year.”
“We have had strong performances throughout the year and our goal is to end it on a high note.”
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We have certain specific things we would like to observe and gain further knowledge on.
“However, this is influenced by the type of test that will be administered.”
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In order to succeed in this game, it is necessary to strategize how to penetrate a strong defense. We must carefully choose players for our starting team who possess the ability to open up opportunities and overcome challenges.
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Therefore, you constantly strive to attain various goals.
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The past week was difficult as we lost many players in the five days leading up to the camp.
Every day, it seemed like someone new was leaving, causing a lot of changes within the team. As a result, it has been difficult to have all of the players on the field each day.
On Tuesday, our training was minimal so this week has been shorter. We are satisfied with the team’s progress for the upcoming game and eagerly anticipate watching them play.
On Monday, England will finish their schedule with a game against North Macedonia, and then focus will shift to the Euro 2024 draw in Hamburg on December 2nd.
Preparations are currently in progress and Southgate emphasizes the importance of winning in all of his actions as he strives to translate seven years of knowledge into a championship victory.
“I have come to realize that you have taken on one of the most demanding roles in the world of football and have successfully handled some of the most significant matches in the sport,” he stated.
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“We have yet to complete a World Cup final.”
Do you comprehend the implications in the future regarding your acquired knowledge and growth from those past experiences?
We have successfully navigated through challenges and pressure, which can often be overwhelming for many individuals. I am proud that we have demonstrated our ability to handle these situations.
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I am certain that in the past, there were many doubts about my abilities to accomplish this task. And undoubtedly, there will continue to be doubts from others in the future, as that is a constant.
“As a person and a coach, you will constantly encounter questions. However, each experience and challenge you face will provide valuable learning opportunities. Every day brings new challenges and continuous learning.”
Source: independent.co.uk
