The England Thread

[djhotspur]

I can completely see both of these Foden arguments and I think this shows how difficult Southgate's job actually is, which many people don't really seem to be appreciating. I've seen many calls for Gordon or Palmer to play, for example, without the pundit saying who would be dropped. Do you drop Bellingham or Foden? I don't think Foden has played anywhere near how he can but I think he's growing into the tournament and improving game by game. I think the same can be said of Bellingham, and they both looked better with the change of formation in the last game. But we still looked better when Palmer came on, but would he be as effective from the beginning?

I also think Saka was pretty poor in the group games, but was easily man of the match against the Swiss.

And Rice has also been nowhere his Arsenal form, but improves throughout each game, so you have to play him and can't take him off.

There's also no way I'd start with Toney over Kane. but he's been very effective coming on for him late on. Watkins maybe...

I think Southgate actually has the luxury of keeping it as is and seeing how we go against better teams, and presumably we'll go better, but if we don't he can always chuck on loads of great attackers and if we don't managed to scrat a goal, at least now we've got to the semis.

I think it's time to accept we are what we are and keep our fingers crossed we finally get the luck on our side to go with three years of non-stop penalty practice.

Yeah Saka had a brilliant first half in the first game and was motm against the Swiss for sure but everyone going on like he’s having some amazing tournament is over the top. Loads of wingers have out performed him this euros.
Glad he took his penalty well though and got his redemption.
foden just doesn’t turn up for England and I agree he needs to be dropped he’s had enough chances now, play palmer.
Kane probably does need dropping too.

 

[HildoSpur]

England continue to be woeful yet somehow have managed to get to the semis by avoiding any really good teams. Netherlands are ok but nothing special so it's probably a toss of a coin as to who gets to the final to get well beaten by Spain.

 

[BigVic]

England continue to be woeful yet somehow have managed to get to the semis by avoiding any really good teams. Netherlands are ok but nothing special so it's probably a toss of a coin as to who gets to the final to get well beaten by Spain.

Are Spain that good though, I dont think anyone has been great to be honest Spain included.

 

[dontcallme]

Are Spain that good though, I dont think anyone has been great to be honest Spain included.

I think the best nutshell analysis I’ve heard is every team is playing rubbish, cautious and relying on a star player to get them a goal.

Spain have at least played some decent football. But no one has been particularly good.

 

[HildoSpur]

Are Spain that good though, I dont think anyone has been great to be honest Spain included.

Spain at least look like a functioning football team unlike the majority of other 'big' nations in the competition to date.

 

[N'Obody]

I think the best nutshell analysis I’ve heard is every team is playing rubbish, cautious and relying on a star player to get them a goal.

Spain have at least played some decent football. But no one has been particularly good.

This is exactly it tbf, most if not all teams have been playing it super safe and cautious and it's been dead boring to watch. I get they want to win the tournament and this is a good plan, but for the ones watching, it's not entertaining whatsoever.

Spain are the ones playing good football, and the other nation who actually played direct football was Turkey, but they got eliminated unfortunately, but they came with entertainment and I loved watching them play. It's a shame they are out, as they played the way we as viewers love to watch teams play.

 

[Whazam]

Are Spain that good though, I dont think anyone has been great to be honest Spain included.

I've been very impressed with Spain. Think they should've won all of their games more comfortable than they have, based on how they've looked.

 

[SlotBadger]

 

[PCozzie]

If only Southgate could bring the same level of innovation and detail to the football we play. There's no question he is top tier for the players on a social and emotional level.

ETA: In another universe he'd be on a joint ticket as co-manager with someone elite at the playing side. Southgate would be more of a 'tour manager' figure.

 

[SlotBadger]

 

[Kirito]

Interesting article


Gareth Southgate: England’s Greatest Manager?

Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national football team, is often the subject of fierce debate. Yet, as we approach the climax of Euro 2024, where England has secured a place in the semi-finals, there is a compelling argument to be made that Southgate might indeed be the greatest manager England has ever had.

A Track Record of Success

Southgate’s tenure began under tumultuous circumstances, taking over from Sam Allardyce in 2016. His immediate impact was evident as he instilled a sense of stability and discipline in the squad. The results have followed, with England reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, finishing third in the 2019 UEFA Nations League, and making it to the final of Euro 2020. Under his guidance, England has consistently progressed further in major tournaments than under most of his predecessors.

Master of Penalties

One of the most striking aspects of Southgate’s management is his handling of the infamous penalty shootouts. Historically a bane for England, Southgate has transformed this narrative. England’s recent penalty shootout victory over Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals marked their third win out of four shootouts under his management . This turnaround is a testament to his meticulous preparation and psychological management of the players.

Tactical Flexibility

Southgate has shown a remarkable ability to adapt tactically. His decision to switch to a back three for the Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland was a bold move, aimed at maximizing the strengths of players like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden. This tactical flexibility was crucial in navigating through a tough match and securing a semi-final berth . His willingness to experiment and adjust demonstrates a deep understanding of the game and a strategic mind that has often been missing in England’s management.

Building a Cohesive Team

Perhaps one of Southgate’s greatest achievements is the culture he has fostered within the squad. He has built a cohesive unit, where players like Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane have thrived. The spirit and camaraderie within the team are palpable, with players consistently speaking highly of the atmosphere Southgate has created. This unity has translated into performances on the pitch, as seen in their dramatic comeback victories in the current tournament .

Handling Adversity with Poise

Southgate’s ability to handle adversity has also set him apart. His response to the intense scrutiny and criticism, particularly after the Euro 2020 final loss to Italy on penalties, has been exemplary. He has remained composed and focused, steering the team with a steady hand through both triumphs and disappointments. This resilience has been crucial in maintaining the team’s morale and confidence .

A Legacy in the Making

As England prepares to face the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-finals, Southgate’s legacy continues to grow. His achievements in major tournaments, combined with his innovative tactics and leadership skills, position him as a transformative figure in English football. While opinions may remain divided, the evidence of his success is undeniable. Under his management, England has become a formidable force in international football, and his contributions will be remembered long after his tenure ends.

In conclusion, while Gareth Southgate may have his detractors, his accomplishments and the positive changes he has brought to the England team make a strong case for him being considered the greatest manager England has ever had.

 

[muppetman]

Interesting article


Gareth Southgate: England’s Greatest Manager?

Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national football team, is often the subject of fierce debate. Yet, as we approach the climax of Euro 2024, where England has secured a place in the semi-finals, there is a compelling argument to be made that Southgate might indeed be the greatest manager England has ever had.

A Track Record of Success

Southgate’s tenure began under tumultuous circumstances, taking over from Sam Allardyce in 2016. His immediate impact was evident as he instilled a sense of stability and discipline in the squad. The results have followed, with England reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, finishing third in the 2019 UEFA Nations League, and making it to the final of Euro 2020. Under his guidance, England has consistently progressed further in major tournaments than under most of his predecessors.

Master of Penalties

One of the most striking aspects of Southgate’s management is his handling of the infamous penalty shootouts. Historically a bane for England, Southgate has transformed this narrative. England’s recent penalty shootout victory over Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals marked their third win out of four shootouts under his management . This turnaround is a testament to his meticulous preparation and psychological management of the players.

Tactical Flexibility

Southgate has shown a remarkable ability to adapt tactically. His decision to switch to a back three for the Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland was a bold move, aimed at maximizing the strengths of players like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden. This tactical flexibility was crucial in navigating through a tough match and securing a semi-final berth . His willingness to experiment and adjust demonstrates a deep understanding of the game and a strategic mind that has often been missing in England’s management.

Building a Cohesive Team

Perhaps one of Southgate’s greatest achievements is the culture he has fostered within the squad. He has built a cohesive unit, where players like Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane have thrived. The spirit and camaraderie within the team are palpable, with players consistently speaking highly of the atmosphere Southgate has created. This unity has translated into performances on the pitch, as seen in their dramatic comeback victories in the current tournament .

Handling Adversity with Poise

Southgate’s ability to handle adversity has also set him apart. His response to the intense scrutiny and criticism, particularly after the Euro 2020 final loss to Italy on penalties, has been exemplary. He has remained composed and focused, steering the team with a steady hand through both triumphs and disappointments. This resilience has been crucial in maintaining the team’s morale and confidence .

A Legacy in the Making

As England prepares to face the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-finals, Southgate’s legacy continues to grow. His achievements in major tournaments, combined with his innovative tactics and leadership skills, position him as a transformative figure in English football. While opinions may remain divided, the evidence of his success is undeniable. Under his management, England has become a formidable force in international football, and his contributions will be remembered long after his tenure ends.

In conclusion, while Gareth Southgate may have his detractors, his accomplishments and the positive changes he has brought to the England team make a strong case for him being considered the greatest manager England has ever had.

This’ll be popular!

 

[Bluto Blutarsky]

I say, give him a lifetime appointment!

 

[Kirito]

I say, give him a lifetime appointment!

And a knighthood

 

[BedfordshireSpud]

And a knighthood

Saint Gareth

 

[Trix]

I say, give him a lifetime appointment!

And a knighthood

And a P45

 

[Rocksuperstar]

Pretty confident Gareth will step down after this tournament, regardless of if we win or not. He'll step down and that'll be the end of this "era", and a few of the older players' time with the national squad.

 

[Thenewcat]

Interesting article


Gareth Southgate: England’s Greatest Manager?

Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national football team, is often the subject of fierce debate. Yet, as we approach the climax of Euro 2024, where England has secured a place in the semi-finals, there is a compelling argument to be made that Southgate might indeed be the greatest manager England has ever had.

A Track Record of Success

Southgate’s tenure began under tumultuous circumstances, taking over from Sam Allardyce in 2016. His immediate impact was evident as he instilled a sense of stability and discipline in the squad. The results have followed, with England reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, finishing third in the 2019 UEFA Nations League, and making it to the final of Euro 2020. Under his guidance, England has consistently progressed further in major tournaments than under most of his predecessors.

Master of Penalties

One of the most striking aspects of Southgate’s management is his handling of the infamous penalty shootouts. Historically a bane for England, Southgate has transformed this narrative. England’s recent penalty shootout victory over Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals marked their third win out of four shootouts under his management . This turnaround is a testament to his meticulous preparation and psychological management of the players.

Tactical Flexibility

Southgate has shown a remarkable ability to adapt tactically. His decision to switch to a back three for the Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland was a bold move, aimed at maximizing the strengths of players like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden. This tactical flexibility was crucial in navigating through a tough match and securing a semi-final berth . His willingness to experiment and adjust demonstrates a deep understanding of the game and a strategic mind that has often been missing in England’s management.

Building a Cohesive Team

Perhaps one of Southgate’s greatest achievements is the culture he has fostered within the squad. He has built a cohesive unit, where players like Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane have thrived. The spirit and camaraderie within the team are palpable, with players consistently speaking highly of the atmosphere Southgate has created. This unity has translated into performances on the pitch, as seen in their dramatic comeback victories in the current tournament .

Handling Adversity with Poise

Southgate’s ability to handle adversity has also set him apart. His response to the intense scrutiny and criticism, particularly after the Euro 2020 final loss to Italy on penalties, has been exemplary. He has remained composed and focused, steering the team with a steady hand through both triumphs and disappointments. This resilience has been crucial in maintaining the team’s morale and confidence .

A Legacy in the Making

As England prepares to face the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-finals, Southgate’s legacy continues to grow. His achievements in major tournaments, combined with his innovative tactics and leadership skills, position him as a transformative figure in English football. While opinions may remain divided, the evidence of his success is undeniable. Under his management, England has become a formidable force in international football, and his contributions will be remembered long after his tenure ends.

In conclusion, while Gareth Southgate may have his detractors, his accomplishments and the positive changes he has brought to the England team make a strong case for him being considered the greatest manager England has ever had.

I don’t know who wrote it but there’s some borderline trolling in there. Whatever else he may have (and some of the positive points in the article are fair) he most definitely does not have ‘remarkable tactical flexibility’ and his changes against Switzerland definitely didn’t get the best of Foden (subbed off) or Bellingham (or Kane or the full backs for that matter).

a last word about being a ‘master of penalties’. The conclusions people reach off tiny sample sizes always amaze me. There have been 4 of them and we are one above average: It seems relevant that we lost the most important one too and giving it equal weight as a 3rd place playoff in the nations league in deciding the players are immune to pressure is a bit much

 

[muppetman]

Pretty confident Gareth will step down after this tournament, regardless of if we win or not. He'll step down and that'll be the end of this "era", and a few of the older players' time with the national squad.

Then we can get into slating the next clueless clown the FA install.

Rinse and repeat.

 

[mightyspur]

Interesting article


Gareth Southgate: England’s Greatest Manager?

Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national football team, is often the subject of fierce debate. Yet, as we approach the climax of Euro 2024, where England has secured a place in the semi-finals, there is a compelling argument to be made that Southgate might indeed be the greatest manager England has ever had.

A Track Record of Success

Southgate’s tenure began under tumultuous circumstances, taking over from Sam Allardyce in 2016. His immediate impact was evident as he instilled a sense of stability and discipline in the squad. The results have followed, with England reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, finishing third in the 2019 UEFA Nations League, and making it to the final of Euro 2020. Under his guidance, England has consistently progressed further in major tournaments than under most of his predecessors.

Master of Penalties

One of the most striking aspects of Southgate’s management is his handling of the infamous penalty shootouts. Historically a bane for England, Southgate has transformed this narrative. England’s recent penalty shootout victory over Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals marked their third win out of four shootouts under his management . This turnaround is a testament to his meticulous preparation and psychological management of the players.

Tactical Flexibility

Southgate has shown a remarkable ability to adapt tactically. His decision to switch to a back three for the Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland was a bold move, aimed at maximizing the strengths of players like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden. This tactical flexibility was crucial in navigating through a tough match and securing a semi-final berth . His willingness to experiment and adjust demonstrates a deep understanding of the game and a strategic mind that has often been missing in England’s management.

Building a Cohesive Team

Perhaps one of Southgate’s greatest achievements is the culture he has fostered within the squad. He has built a cohesive unit, where players like Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane have thrived. The spirit and camaraderie within the team are palpable, with players consistently speaking highly of the atmosphere Southgate has created. This unity has translated into performances on the pitch, as seen in their dramatic comeback victories in the current tournament .

Handling Adversity with Poise

Southgate’s ability to handle adversity has also set him apart. His response to the intense scrutiny and criticism, particularly after the Euro 2020 final loss to Italy on penalties, has been exemplary. He has remained composed and focused, steering the team with a steady hand through both triumphs and disappointments. This resilience has been crucial in maintaining the team’s morale and confidence .

A Legacy in the Making

As England prepares to face the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-finals, Southgate’s legacy continues to grow. His achievements in major tournaments, combined with his innovative tactics and leadership skills, position him as a transformative figure in English football. While opinions may remain divided, the evidence of his success is undeniable. Under his management, England has become a formidable force in international football, and his contributions will be remembered long after his tenure ends.

In conclusion, while Gareth Southgate may have his detractors, his accomplishments and the positive changes he has brought to the England team make a strong case for him being considered the greatest manager England has ever had.

Reads like Chat GTP wrote it