Lionhearts stay chilled for big final

AFTER roaring into England’s first major tournament final for 55 years, the Three Lions relaxed with ice baths and swimming – and began to think about the Italians.

Gareth Southgate and team returned to their St George’s Park HQ in Staffordshire and extensive checks were carried out for injuries but all 26 of the squad remained fit.

Boris Johnson called the Euro 2020 semi-final 2-1 win over Denmark a “total nail-biter”.The Prime Minister said: “It was the most extraordinary game. I don’t think I’ve ever seen an England team play with such creativity and flair and versatility.

“The way Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane just kept their energy levels up throughout the 120 minutes or whatever it was. It was a total nail-biter.”

Downing Street said any celebrations to honour the team will be set out “in due course” if England beat Italy on Sunday.

Flexible

The PM’s spokesman said: “Clearly we want England to go all the way and win the final and then we will set out our plans in due course.”

He said there were not any plans to raise the restricted capacity ofWembley Stadium.

No 10 aides said bosses who can, ought to be flexible about letting staff start late on Monday or take the day off if England win.

A spokesman added: “We recognise it will vary depending on the business.”

The England team is said to be fully focused on Sunday.

An insider said: “The boys are in very good spirits but are in no doubt as to the scale of the task ahead.”

The final will be screened by the BBC and ITV and kicks off at 8pm on Sunday.