Gareth Southgate has dismissed any suggestion that his England side would be favorites when they face Germany on Tuesday, describing it as a “really tough game” against a “quality opponent”.
Speaking on the eve of the Euro 2020 round of 16 at Wembley, Southgate said the Germans had “prepared for big matches” going through an “incredibly difficult qualifying group”.
Germany were in Group F, alongside France, Portugal and Hungary.
“The quality of the matches and the level of the opponent were very high,” said the England coach.
“Although I continue to read a lot of negative comments about them, I see a well-prepared team, who know what they’re doing tactically, who are working together, so we know it’s a really, really tough game for us. . “
Ben Chilwell (L) and Mason Mount can join their teammates from midnight
Southgate also referred to Germany’s “enormous big-game experience”, its four World Cup winners and its “many Champions League winners”.
Nonetheless, the England boss has said he doesn’t “necessarily think this game is bigger than the Scottish game”.
But Germany are a “top-notch opponent” and “if the players choose to listen to all the preparation, then a lot of history is involved in the game”.
England are the only British nation left in the tournament after Wales were well beaten by Denmark in their last 16 clash on Saturday.
Ukraine or Sweden are in the lead if England wins, in a match to be played on Saturday night in Rome.
Discussing his roster, Southgate said it would be “complicated” for Chelsea’s Mason Mount to start, but did not rule him out.
Wembley’s capacity is doubled for the 5pm kick-off. Photo: AP
Mount and Ben Chilwell have been isolated since they came into contact with Scotsman Billy Gilmour during the Home Nations clash.
“They have to travel separately to the team – they’ve had …
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Source: news.sky.com
This notice was published: 2021-06-28 17:03:00
