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Gareth Southgate will not make a decision about his future with England until after Euro 2024. He has stated that performance will not be the sole deciding factor. It has been expected for some time that the 53-year-old would leave after this tournament, but this was also said about the 2022 World Cup. Southgate remains focused on preparing for the upcoming campaign and hopes for a successful outcome. He did leave room for the possibility of staying as he spoke at England’s Nations League draw and praised Jude Bellingham’s contributions at Real Madrid.
When specifically inquired about his decision, Southgate replied with a negative answer. He stated that the outcome of the summer will determine his decision. He knows the potential of the team and has set a personal standard for success. Beyond that, he is not currently considering any other factors. Ultimately, the team must perform well and the best decisions must be made for all involved. He will not be able to make a decision before the tournament takes place.
It is crucial to continue winning in football and then make choices. This allows me to feel at ease. My main priority is to ensure a successful tournament this summer.
“We have consistently included this time period for reflection and to make well-informed decisions for the benefit of England.”
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“If we had taken action earlier, it could have negatively impacted summer performance, regardless of which decision you made.”
“I believe our attention is currently on the summer, but personally, you are fully committed to what takes place. I believe this is the right approach.”
This season, Jude Bellingham has been making a huge impact in Spain and Europe as part of Real Madrid’s team.
When questioned about the deciding factor for Euro 2024, Southgate responded “not necessarily.”
Although Southgate didn’t directly answer whether the prospect of overseeing potentially the best player in the world in Bellingham could influence the decision, he enthused about the Real Madrid forward’s accelerated form.
He has been exceptional. He has shown that he can adjust to any situation. It’s clear that they have been playing him in a more advanced position. What surprised us was the number of goals he has scored. He has always made those runs, but he hasn’t always been able to finish them. However, he has been doing that brilliantly now. I have talked about him in the past few months and he continues to impress. The club is also very pleased with his performance.
“It’s certainly a change from where we initially placed him, but since he’s excelling in his current position, it would be foolish not to replicate that in regards to his future placement.”
Southgate mentioned that he is considering observing Kobbie Mainoo from Manchester United in preparation for the Euros. He commended the young player for his impressive performance so far with the team, but is unsure if he will fulfill the role of a defensive midfielder. Mainoo has shown promising potential and Southgate plans to keep an eye on his progress in the future.
The actions of Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo will be monitored by England.
Southgate did not specifically address a question about Marcus Rashford’s recent troubles, but he did mention that England is keeping a close eye on the situation. Despite being disciplined for a night out in Belfast, the forward managed to score in United’s 4-3 victory against Wolves.
We are approaching the point of selecting a team in five weeks, but a lot can change for players from November to March. Therefore, we are constantly monitoring their performance and behavior, both on and off the field.
“After a few weeks, we will need to make decisions about the entire team, and there will be a lot of focus on this as it is the last squad before the Euros.”
The coach of England expressed positive sentiments about Jordan Henderson after he transferred from the Saudi Pro League to Ajax. He mentioned that it is easier to evaluate a player in a European League and believes Henderson will be energized by the recent game. Playing in a proper derby atmosphere, where the club is thrilled to have him and he has received a warm welcome, will surely hold significant meaning for Henderson at this moment.
England was placed in a Nations League group alongside Ireland, Finland, and Greece. This decision may result in backlash for Jack Grealish and Declan Rice, who have both represented Ireland in the past. However, Southgate believes they will be able to handle any negative reactions and praised Rice’s contributions to the team over the past four years. He stated, “I must say, we would have been in a tough spot without them, especially Declan. His performances have been crucial for us during this time.”
Source: independent.co.uk
