ENGLAND SWITCH FOCUS ON UKRAINE
ENGLAND had little time to reflect on their hard-earned 2-0 victory over Germany as preparations soon turned towards the Euro 2020 quarter-final against Ukraine in Rome.
The Three Lions squad were back to work at St George’s Park on Wednesday, when 14 players were involved in the outdoor session, with Jack Grealish joining the starting XI for recovery work.
England manager Gareth Southgate knows there is plenty more work ahead as they focus on today’s showdown with Ukraine, who were left counting the cost of their dramatic extra-time victory over Sweden.
Striker Artem Besedin could be sidelined for up to six months by a knee injury suffered when caught by Sweden defender Marcus Danielson’s high boot at Hampden Park.
Covid travel restrictions mean English people living in Italy are almost certain to be the only Three Lions fans supporting the team at the Stadio Olimpico. The Football Association were working with tournament organisers Uefa and the British Embassy “to facilitate as many ticket sales to English residents in Italy as possible”. How many find their way into the ground remains to be seen — but those that do will be hoping Southgate’s side make it a night to remember.
Ukraine’s Oleksandr Zinchenko knows just what a threat England carry, but has no fears about facing off against the likes of Manchester City team-mates Raheem Sterling, Kyle Walker, John Stones and Phil Foden in Rome. Zinchenko, who opened the scoring at Hampden Park on Tuesday night, said: “If you look at their bench, there are players worth, probably, like three national teams of Ukraine — but this should not frighten us, but rather motivate us.”
Meanwhile, Joachim Low ended his 15-year reign as Germany manager. While he may not have signed off with another successful campaign, the man who guided Die Mannschaft to World Cup glory in 2014 remains a tough act for new coach Hansi Flick to follow.
“For Germany he is the biggest manager of all time, the whole country is proud of him, the players are proud of him,” said Chelsea’s Kai Havertz.
“The career for him is unbelievable and we are disappointed not to give him the best end.”