July 14th 2024.
Jordan Pickford shared his desire for Gareth Southgate to continue leading the English national team after Euro 2024, stating that he believes Southgate is the best manager England has ever had. Unfortunately, the team faced yet another disappointing defeat on Sunday at the hands of Spain in the tournament finale.
The first half of the match was uneventful, with no goals scored. However, things picked up in the second half when Nico Williams from Spain scored within minutes of the restart. England's substitute, Cole Palmer, managed to score a stunning equalizer, giving the team hope. But their hopes were dashed when Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winning goal for Spain in the 86th minute.
Southgate's contract is set to expire in December, but the Football Association is eager for him to continue leading the team in the next World Cup in 2026. The decision ultimately lies with Southgate, and Pickford hopes he will choose to stay on after guiding the team to two European Championship finals, as well as a semi-final and quarter-final in the World Cup.
"We've had an incredible journey, and I hope Southgate stays on because he is truly the best manager England has ever had, considering our history," Pickford expressed in an interview with ITV. "While we haven't been able to secure a victory, reaching two finals, a semi-final, and a quarter-final in four major tournaments is a remarkable accomplishment."
The team's defeat in the final was a tough blow for Pickford and his teammates, especially after their loss to Italy on penalties in 2021. "Reaching the final is something to be proud of, but as players and representing our nation, it's devastating not to come out on top," Pickford shared. "It's heartbreaking for me and my family, who have been with me on this journey since I was a young boy."
"We can take pride in what we've tried to achieve, but ultimately we fell short again," Pickford continued. "Losing to Italy on penalties in the last Euros and now conceding a goal in the 86th minute tonight has taken a toll on me. There are no words to describe it. We gave it our all, but unfortunately, we couldn't get over the line."
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