The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Southgate calls for winning mentality
New boss outlines plans and need for change in bid to follow the lead of Germany
Gareth Southgate has called on his England team to adopt the winning mentality that has driven tonight’s opponents Germany to so much international success.
Southgate’s men take on the world champions in a friendly in Dortmund in his first game since he was confirmed as the permanent replacement for Sam Allardyce.
The manager outlined his long-term ambitions for the team in a presentation at St George’s Park on Monday, which was well-received by the players.
And speaking at a press conference ahead of the match with Germany, he said: “We have to change the way we do things, we have to change the way we think, we have to change the way we work, because we’ve not had the success our opponents have had over a period of time.”
Germany have reached at least the semi-finals of the last four World Cups and last three European Championships, while England have repeatedly made early exits.
Southgate confirmed Chelsea defender Gary Cahill would captain England tonight.
Explaining his decision, Southgate said: “He’s in very good form, he’s one of the players in the side who knows what’s needed to win.
“He’s grown in stature this season, in confidence, in the way he’s using the ball, showing real composure in his play.
“His experience is sometimes overlooked, because he goes quietly about his job and gets on with it. It’s great for him to be able to captain the side tomorrow.”
Cahill, who also led England in their dramatic 3-2 win away to Germany a year ago, said it was a “huge honour” to do so again.
The Chelsea man also revealed the fact former England centre-back Southgate had first-hand experience of the pressures of playing for the national team would benefit the team.
“As a player he knows what it’s like to play for England, to be in our shoes, to have the pressures, to go to tournaments,” he said.
Southgate also revealed that defender Phil Jones, who pulled out of the squad after picking up an injury in training, has suffered a possible toe problem.