After being eliminated from the World Cup in the challenge against France, the coach of England, Gareth Southgate, has stated that he needs time before making a decision on his future. The English technician has an active contract with the "3 Lions", until the finals of the European Championship 2024. After the 2-1 defeat against the "turkeys", Southgate commented to the media:
"These competitions require a lot of energy and I need to reflect. We have done this after every competition and it is the right thing to do. I am very proud of what the players have done, not only in this challenge, but throughout the World Cup. I think the team has taken a step forward in all directions."
Southgate added:
"Everyone can see that the team has made progress during this competition. I think the performances have been of a pretty good level including the one against one of the best teams in the world (France). We showed how close we are to that level, we have some young players who have introduced themselves on the global stage, which we hoped would take us further."
Giroud, who scored the winning goal for the French, also commented on the match, praising England's performance. The attacker said:
"We knew the potential of this new generation of England. They have it all.”
Meanwhile, former Manchester United defender and sports analyst Gary Neville is of the opinion that Southgate should continue in his role as England coach despite the bitter elimination by France. Neville said:
"I would love Southgate to stay for another two years, or more, as national team coach or in some leadership role in the Football Association, designing the future of the team... England are having a good time, let's be clear about that.”
