Gareth Southgate says England “want to go and bring the trophy home” ahead of facing Italy in the Euro 2020 final – the team’s first appearance in a men’s major tournament showpiece in 55 years.
Speaking on the eve of Sunday’s historic match at Wembley – the scene of their 1996 World Cup triumph – Southgate insists the side are “ready” amid nationwide anticipation.
England won a tournament semi-final at the fifth attempt since 1966 with an extra-time win against Denmark on Wednesday, but Southgate is determined to finish the championship in style.
“We’re in a final and we are here to win,” Southgate said.
Southgate described letters received from the Queen and Prime Minister Boris Johnson praising the squad’s spirit and commitment as “fantastic”.
“Everything is important, how we’ve represented people and we’re pleased that legacy has been there but now we want to go and bring the trophy home for everybody,” the 50-year-old added.
“Fifty-five years ago, I was fortunate to present the World Cup to Bobby Moore and saw what it meant to the players, management and support staff to reach and win the final of a major international football tournament.
I want to send my congratulations and that of my family to you all on reaching the final of the European Championships, and send my good wishes for tomorrow with the hope that history will record not only your success but also the spirit, commitment and pride with which you have conducted yourselves.”
Fans lined the road and waved flags near St George’s Park as the team bus left the England training complex for the final time earlier on Saturday.