England: meet the squad – Three Lions special
Player interviews
Raheem Sterling: Since media backlash for an M-16 machine gun tattoo, inspired by his shooting-foot and as reminder of his father’s passing, Sterling thanked teammates for their backing.
His past week was not tough, his focus was beating Nigeria 2-1. Speaking about not being down but looking forward to the competition. He apologised to the group for late arrival, regardless of his delayed flight.
Additionally he mentioned he also has Wembley, England’s ground, depicted in modern ink. This is because he grew-up within a mile of the stadium.
Sterling does not believe he has been treated unfairly or negatively. Just strangely, for an unfinished tattoo which he has ‘had a while’.
Jordan Henderson: Has had a difficult week since the Champions League final. Insisted that he wanted to gather himself with international colleagues.
"“The manager rang me on the Tuesday in the week leading up to the final. I wasn’t thinking about it because of the final – that is where my focus was. When the gaffer told me (Kane has captaincy) I was just really pleased for Harry.”"
Henderson also said that his nation could well win the league. Respectfully citing Leicester City.
Phil Jones: Jones was noticeably tired and proud to become a father this week. Family comes before job, frequently mentioned here.
In that sense the Manchester United defender is pleased to have home life settled now. His job and game has his ‘full attention now’ – I am sure his wife is busy!
On playing in a defensive-three: happy and experienced to do so. Possession football with directness and an edge is Southgate’s philosophy.
Best quote:
Fabian Delph’s delight when presented with personalised Yorkshire Teabags:
"“It’s what my family has always drunk and now it has my name on it. I’ll put it on the shelf next to the Premier League winners’ medal.”"
In conclusion, us England supporters have a settled, young, abundantly blessed and happy squad. There is no onus for once, except to qualify from a favourable group G. My prediction is a remarkable semi-final appearance. Sky’s programme is worth watching on repeat.
Final Friendly
Set to start Thursday as England play their last warm-up game against Costa Rica is ‘keeper Jack Butland. Jordan Pickford is favourite for the No.1 spot. Although, I favour the current Stoke City stopper. Pickford’s strange antics after conceding versus Nigeria ultimately convinced me he is not ready. My chosen understudy is Nick Pope, he is well deserving.
Jamie Vardy, Danny Rose and Alexander-Arnold are encouragingly also set to get a starting chance to finally impress. Leeds’ Elland Road is the ground at which the two national teams will meet. Elland Road has not hosted an England match for over 16 years. Southgate explained choosing the competitors and the location:
"“We’re going into a World Cup where we will play African and Central American opposition so we get that with the games against Nigeria and Costa Rica.” – Gareth Southgate (Via: Daily Mail)"
The English Football Association wanted the squad to experience ‘different cities before a tournament to nurture support ahead of the World Cup’. Before Euro 2016, the Three Lions played friendlies in Manchester as well as Sunderland.
When the Costa Rican contest is done, England jet off to their training base in St. Petersburg. There, it may be a whopping 20 degrees colder than their homeland.
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