GARETH SOUTHGATE
What do you think of England’s group?
When you’re a second seed you are expecting a game against a team ranked above you and performing well, and then two teams that you are expected to beat and will pose different problems. One of the keys has been getting up to speed on Tunisia and Panama. We didn’t know as much about them as we do about Belgium. They will arrive with high excitement and lower expectations, which of course makes them dangerous.
Can you dare to dream?
I think it depends what your dream is. But I think we know where we are – we’re a team ranked 13th in the world. We’re a team that we know is developing but we’re not at the stage that Brazil and Germany have reached. We feel our young players are so exciting that we should push them ahead, because we feel in the mid-to-long term that’s going to give us a better chance of winning things. That’s not to limit what we think is possible from them this summer, but I’ve also got to be realistic about the number of caps, the ages of the team, and what our expectations of that should be. But I’m excited by the players we’ve got.
Are you concerned about the use of VAR at this tournament?
My personal preference is that there is no technology because I believe it is a sport and the referee’s decision should be final. But if
we’re going to have technology then it must aid the referee and only be used for clear calls. Ideally, I think as we progress there must be a better way of communicating with the supporters in the stadia. A lot of the confusion and negativity comes from a lack of understanding of what is going on. I was at the Confederations Cup and saw the trial there. I have seen the FA Cup matches too. Generally, the ultimate decisions have been correct, but the process of getting there has been a little convoluted at times.
Who are the tournament favourites?
We have played numbers one and two in the world [Brazil and Germany] in the last few months. They are both outstanding teams. Spain are re-emerging again. Belgium we know are really strong. But I’d have to say Brazil look to have strength, athleticism and technique.
Are England “dark horses”?
My aim is that we surprise people, so if that’s a dark horse then absolutely. That is probably how we are viewed at the moment, and I think that’s good for us.
England have often suffered from player burn-out at major finals. Is that a concern?
Well, if we are, then the other 67 per cent who play in our league also are. We have probably got some guys who haven’t played enough, ironically. We have to ensure that their psychological energy is right. There is the physical part, but actually it is mental fatigue that can be an issue.
Have England players learned the lessons of the defeat to Iceland at Euro 2016?
What we have tried to do is not bury that experience. If you bury it and don’t discuss why it happened, you lose the lessons. It was a disappointment. Over time the guys have been more open about that, and we are putting things in place – tactical stuff, preparation for games, method of playing, psychological support – that we hope will address those issues.