This is England’s lifeline at the Euros – a quarter-final clash that seemed so unlikely deep into stoppage time last weekend.
Fresh from great escape against SlovakiaGareth Southgate reaches his 100th match in charge of England, publicly downplaying the milestone as he focuses on trying to overcome Switzerland tonight.
But captain Harry Kane is full of praise for the coach who has allowed him to reach the last 16 in four consecutive tournaments.
“It just shows his level and the consistency he has shown with the coaching staff,” said Kane, who scored the extra-time winner against Slovakia in the round of 16.
“He has changed a lot in terms of our national team during his tenure since he arrived here.
“Not just on and off the field, but also through the connections we had with the fans and the media, and he allowed people to open up and be themselves.
“That was a huge turning point in our careers as English players. So I’m very happy for him and he must be extremely proud, but his only concern is making sure we win.”
O Prince of Wales was confirmed as one of those present at the game, hoping to see the team secure a place in the semi-finals.
The royals’ continued support for the team came after they traveled to Frankfurt for England’s second game of the tournament, which ended in a 1-1 draw with Denmark.
‘I hope we play well’
Lose and Southgate’s eight-year tenure is about to end as the Three Lions’ 58-year wait for another trophy could not be ended.
But winning in Dusseldorf would be the third semi-final of his reign.
Available for selection is Jude Bellingham, the hero of Comeback in the 95th minute against Slovakia after avoiding a UEFA ban for his crude celebration.
Kane and Bellingham celebrate goal against Slovakia. Photo: Reuters
And now fit to play is left-back Luke Shaw, who came to Germany despite being injured since February.
But Southgate is being tipped to sign Bukayo Saka rather than Shaw and Kieran Trippier at full-back.
This is part of a Tactical change reported as Southgate tries to shake up team after underwhelming performances in their four matches so far in Germany – and remaining unbeaten.
“There is a lot of expectation on the team, especially at the start of the tournament,” Southgate said.
“So I feel like the team, even in training, now looks different mentally. They look more fluid and I hope we play well.”
Bellingham’s 95th-minute aerial strike prevented a humiliating elimination from the tournament. PA Photo
A change is needed, with defender Marc Guehi suspended after receiving two yellow cards.
It has been suggested that, for the first time since the Euro final defeat to Italy in 2021, a back three could be used with John Stones, Kyle Walker and Ezri Konsa floating as the trio.
Southgate bristles at suggestions England have ended up on the kinder side of the draw in this clash against Switzerland.
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The winner faces the Netherlands or Turkey in the semi-finals, while Spain faces France in the other quarter-finals.
“I would say it’s a classic example of the kind of entitlement we have as a nation that creates drama and irritates our opponents,” said Southgate, who played 57 times for England.
The Swiss drew 1-1 with Scotland in the group stage but eliminated champions Italy last weekend.
“We are playing against a very strong footballing nation, who played exceptionally well, were well prepared and have enormous pride,” said Southgate.
“Our focus is on how do we win this game and how do we play the best we can?”
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