Shaw Defends Southgate As England Eyes Euro 2024 Final Spot

Luke Shaw is puzzled by the criticism aimed at England manager Gareth Southgate. Southgate is on the verge of leading England to consecutive European Championship finals. After losing the delayed 2020 final to Italy on penalties, England secured their spot in the Euro 2024 semi-finals by defeating Switzerland in a penalty shootout on Saturday.

Southgate's tenure has seen significant achievements. He has led England to three semi-finals in four tournaments, a feat unmatched by his predecessors. Before his appointment, England had only reached two semi-finals in 17 competitions. His 13 major tournament wins are the highest for any England manager. Only Walter Winterbottom and Alf Ramsey have overseen more goals for England than Southgate's 210.

Despite these accomplishments, Southgate faces criticism for his perceived negative tactics, especially after a goalless draw with Slovenia during the group stage in Germany. Some fans even threw cups at him following that match. Shaw expressed his confusion over this criticism, stating, "I don't understand the criticism. What he's done for the country and us players, he's taken us to the next level."

Shaw emphasised the players' support for Southgate, saying, "No manager has been as successful as he has recently. Us players love him; he's exactly what we need." Shaw appreciates Southgate's faith and trust in him, which was evident when he was picked despite his injury setbacks.

Shaw made his first appearance of the tournament against Switzerland after recovering from a hamstring injury that ended his season early in February. Although watching from the sidelines was tough for Shaw, he always believed in England's ability to progress despite trailing in both knockout matches against Slovakia and Switzerland.

England's Resilience and Improvement

"It was tough. I felt more nervous watching than playing; it is quite tough," Shaw admitted. He never doubted England's chances of advancing, stressing the importance of belief until the end. He highlighted Jude Bellingham's overhead kick against Slovakia as an example of good moments that can happen but emphasised that it's up to the players to deliver on the pitch.

As they prepare to face the Netherlands in the semi-finals on Wednesday, Shaw believes that game by game, England is improving. "There are things we can still improve on but we're looking good," he said.

Southgate aims to become the first England manager to lead the team to a tournament final on foreign soil. Saturday's quarter-final marked his 100th game in charge of England, a milestone reflecting his significant impact on English football.

The journey under Southgate has been transformative for both players and fans alike. His leadership has brought renewed hope and success to English football, making him one of the most successful managers in recent history.