Southgate Confident In Zwayer's Role Despite Bellingham's Past Comments

By OneArabia

Published: Tuesday, July 9, 2024, 22:54 [GST]

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Gareth Southgate has dismissed concerns about Felix Zwayer officiating England's Euro 2024 semi-final, despite the referee's controversial past with Jude Bellingham. Bellingham, who was fined £40,000 for his comments about Zwayer after a 2021 defeat to Bayern Munich, had criticised the referee's history of match-fixing.Southgate expressed confidence in UEFA's decision-making process regarding referees. "Everybody knows how I deal with referees, with complete respect for every referee," he stated at a pre-match press conference. He added that UEFA ensures high standards for officials, making Zwayer's appointment not a concern.Zwayer received a six-month ban in 2005 after accepting a £250 bribe from Robert Hoyzer, who was banned for life. Despite this history, Southgate is unfazed by the all-German officiating team for the match against the Netherlands.Bellingham has been crucial for England at Euro 2024, scoring in their opener against Serbia and netting a last-minute equaliser against Slovakia. His comments about Zwayer came after Dortmund's 3-2 loss to Bayern Munich when he was just 18 years old.Southgate faced criticism for keeping key players like Harry Kane and Bellingham on the field for extended periods during an unconvincing victory. He explained his approach to substitutions: "There are different reasons for making changes... You are always looking at the freshness of the team and the balance of the team."

Preparing for the Netherlands

Regarding their upcoming match against the Netherlands, Southgate is ready for any tactics Ronald Koeman might employ. "Dutch teams don't tend to sit in... but Ronald Koeman is an experienced coach," he noted. Southgate anticipates an exciting game with many talented players on both sides.The England manager emphasised that his team needs to step up their performance compared to their last game due to the higher quality of opponents they will face.

It's time to hear from @HKane and Gareth Southgate ahead of our #EURO2024 semi-final against the Netherlands! https://t.co/D65JTNut6K

— England (@England) July 9, 2024

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Southgate reiterated that all players are in good condition and ready for the match. The direction of the game will dictate any necessary decisions regarding substitutions.The anticipation surrounding this semi-final clash is palpable as both teams prepare to showcase their skills on a significant stage.