England’s Euro 2020 - Good Weather, Cheap Pints, and Another Round of Crushing Disappointment

Unfortunately for fellow Brits like myself, the time has come for another major international tournament and if previous attempts are any indication, we’re in for another whole summer filled with good weather, cheap pints and another round of crushing disappointment. Some might gasp at that statement and point toward the likes of Phil Foden, Mason Mount, and Harry Kane as suitable talents to lead England to their first European Championship in 2021. However, with the likes of Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, and Wayne Rooney unable to produce on the international stage, I don’t give our boys much chance either.

I know that’s a pretty negative note to start on but I have tried to remain positive. Gareth Southgate has assembled quite a side that (on paper) that looks poised for at least another visit to this years semi-final before obviously being quickly dismantled by the likes of France or Germany. Last weeks Champions League Final was a fine example of some of the talent that England possess throughout their 11-man line up and is probably the main reason why a lot of fans see England going deep into the tournament. However, there is a small issue. Having a so-so manager assemble a team of famous names is one thing, getting them to perform together is an entirely different ball game. Now, this would be a heavy task as it is but unfortunately for Gareth Southgate, Englands stars will be more concentrated on the elevation of their price tag than winning any games. 

Harry Kane recently announced his desire to leave London’s north end in his pursuit of a fuller trophy cabinet. As Englands captain and certified main goal threat, his performance at Euro 2020 will ultimately have a major effect on his future career and where he ends up in the coming months. The same goes for fellow Premier League star Jack Grealish who has been linked with a move away from Aston Villa for sometime now and the list doesn’t stop there. 

So with most of this summers stories focused on where these players will end up playing their club football in September, its hard to see why most of England’s players won’t treat the Euros as a personal showcase to secure their next big pay day instead of competing against Europe’s greatest. 

Last nights performance against Austria was just a small taste of what I fear might be to come - lacklustre team football combined with moments of individual brilliance that will ultimately result in our timely exit (but at least we can use it as an excuse to enjoy the weather and flirt with government COVID guidelines). 

England Euro 2020 - independent.co.uk