The recent shaky performances of England’s national team at Euro 2024 have left many fans and media outlets criticizing manager Gareth Southgate for his team selection and tactics. However, midfielder Phil Foden believes that the blame should be placed on the players themselves. Foden expressed his sympathy for Southgate, stating that it is time for the players to step up and take responsibility for their performances.
Foden emphasized the importance of leadership within the team, pointing out that there needs to be more initiative from the players to find solutions when things are not going as planned on the pitch. He highlighted the disconnect between the team’s style of play and the training instructions given by Southgate, particularly in terms of pressing high up the pitch. Foden stressed that it is not solely the manager’s responsibility to ensure the team’s success, but rather the players need to take ownership of their performances.
In light of England’s upcoming quarterfinal match against Switzerland, Foden called for the players to come together and work as a cohesive unit. He acknowledged that there have been missed opportunities for the team to collaborate on the field and collectively address challenges during matches. Foden suggested that more communication and teamwork are needed to improve their performance and showcase their potential as a team.
Redefining roles and responsibilities
Reflecting on their training sessions, Foden recognized that the players have not fully embraced Southgate’s tactics of pressing and maintaining a high line on the pitch. He noted that the onus is on the players to adapt to these strategies and execute them effectively during matches. By redefining their roles and responsibilities on the field, Foden believes that England can elevate their performance and achieve better results in the tournament.
Phil Foden’s candid assessment of England’s performances at Euro 2024 underscores the need for players to take ownership of their actions and collaborate more effectively as a team. While managerial decisions and tactics play a role in shaping the team’s performance, the ultimate responsibility lies with the players to execute the game plan and deliver results on the pitch. As England prepares for their quarterfinal showdown, Foden’s call for leadership, unity, and commitment among the players serves as a timely reminder of the collective effort required to succeed at the highest level of international competition.
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