My biggest dream as a player has always been to win a major tournament with England. Unfortunately, we got very close, but it didn’t happen. Now, in broadcasting, I have the same ambition. I’ve always wanted to announce that an England men’s team has won a World Cup or European Championship, and I’m hoping that Sunday will be the day it finally happens.
It’s definitely going to be a tough match. England will be facing a very strong Spain team with some superstars and an emerging young talent. However, I still believe that England has a good chance. The experience from the last Euros, where England lost in the final on penalties, will definitely help them now. I’ve been saying for a while that this team has what it takes to win, and I still stand by that.
If it doesn’t happen on Sunday, I believe it will in the near future. This England side is only going to improve, and eventually, they will win something. I’m just hoping that it all comes together on Sunday.
It’s interesting that we are facing Spain in the final, as I was discussing with Cesc Fabregas earlier. He mentioned similarities between this England team and the Spain team of 2008, who hadn’t won a modern-day tournament before. Both teams had won one tournament back in the 60s, but they managed to come together and win major trophies later on. It would be amazing if England can do the same and lift their first trophy in Germany.
This England team has shown improvement throughout the tournament, despite a slow start. As a broadcaster, I’ve always believed in being honest and analytical. We’ve been critical of the team’s early performances, including Harry Kane’s, but it’s important to evaluate the game objectively. Harry may not have been at his best, but he is still a top finisher and a constant threat.
The role of the number nine position has evolved over the years. Many forwards now prefer to play wider roles rather than being a traditional number nine. This shift could be due to tactical changes in the game. Strikers are now more reliant on the team’s performance as a whole to be effective.
In the end, what matters most is the team’s success. Whether it’s Harry Kane or Ollie Watkins who scores the winning goal on Sunday, what’s important is that England lifts the trophy. Football has become a squad game, and Southgate has the advantage of having a deep talent pool to choose from.
As a former player and now a broadcaster, I will continue to provide honest analysis and insights into the game. I hope that England can make history on Sunday and bring home the trophy.
