Three Lions chief shows class and statesmanship as he hails NHS staff as Britain’s heroes and calls on all of us to look after one another

REAL

ENGLAND’S players are often lauded because of their performances for the Three Lions.

But Gareth Southgate says the men and women working in the NHS in these unprecedented times are the nation’s real heroes.

The England boss has put any disappointment at the postponement of Euro 2020 for 12 months in its proper context by saying everyone’s focus should be on coming through the coronavirus crisis.

“As we would have been gathering our squad for March fixtures this weekend, it felt an appropriate moment to write a message to all supporters,” said Southgate in an open letter to fans.

“For everyone in our country, the primary focus of the present – and the coming months – is undoubtedly to look after our families, support our communities, and work together to come through what is clearly the most extreme test that we’ve faced collectively in decades.

“We were due to play next week and to represent you all this summer, but now is clearly not the moment for us to take centre stage.

“The heroes will be the men and women who continue working tirelessly in our hospitals and medical centres to look after our friends and families. They won’t receive the individual acclaim but we all know their importance is beyond anything we do on the pitch.”

Southgate, grounded enough to know that football means nothing at present, sent his condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He called on everyone to heed the Government’s advice on hygiene and safeguarding to combat the spread of the virus.

“On behalf of all the team and staff, I would like to take this opportunity to send our sympathies to those who have lost loved ones already,” he added. “Our thoughts are with you and with those who sadly will suffer similarly in the coming period.

In the way you’ve all come together to support our team, we must now work together to combat a virus that is causing physical and emotional issues to so many.

“So, please continue to follow the guidelines for hygiene and also the sensible precautions put in place to control the spread of the virus in order to protect those most vulnerable to its impact.

“That responsibility lies with us all.”

The football world is often accused of being detached from fans because of the millionaire lifestyles enjoyed by so many but Southgate sympathised with those who have lost their jobs or are struggling financially because of the crisis.

“We are also conscious of the economic uncertainty affecting so many businesses and, consequently, virtually every family,” he said.

“Coupled with the unique challenges of self-isolation, the loss of routine to normal working and social life, we face real challenges to our mental wellbeing.

“Our children may feel anxious with uncertainty. It’s not normal for any of us and it’s going to challenge us all.

“Look out for each other. Please don’t suffer alone and remember that our great country has come through these enormous challenges before. Together we will do so again.”