After 120 hard-fought minutes, an own goal by the Danish EM hero Simon Kjaer and a controversial penalty decision in favor of Harry Kane, it is clear: England are in a major tournament final for the first time in 55 years. “Sweet Caroline” and “Football’s Coming Home” resound through the Wembley Stadium, 60,000 fans in the stadium and millions more on the rest of the island are in a party mood.
Manchester United legend Gary Neville is one of them. The 85-time English International showered the Three Lions on ITV with praise: «We have never achieved anything like this in our lives. The boys have to stay focused, but we don’t. The whole country is dancing, it’s a national holiday, have fun! “
“The standard of leaders in this country is low”
Neville is particularly appreciative of coach Gareth Southgate – but also hides a swipe at Prime Minister Boris Johnson in his eulogy: “The standard of leaders in this country has been low for several years. Gareth Southgate has everything it takes to be a leader: he is respectful, humble, honest. ” Since then, the devil has broken loose on the net. Many are calling for Southgate to be raised to the nobility by the Queen. And not a few would rather see the England coach than Boris Johnson as Premier on Downing Street.
Former full-back Neville is known for not shying away from harsh criticism and controversial statements. Already in the Super League fiasco in May, the 46-year-old gave a good deal of abuse against the breakaway Premier League clubs. (Tim)