An emotional Gareth Southgate hit back at his critics through stifled tears after England reached the Euro 2024 final. England are through to the Euro 2024 final after beating the Netherlands in dramatic fashion with a last-gasp winner from super-sub Ollie Watkins . It means the Three Lions have reached back-to-back finals at the European Championship after finishing runners-up at Euro 2020.
Southgate has had his fair share of criticism in recent years, which has amplified over the past month because of a perceived turgid style of play. But the England boss lashed out at his doubters after the victory over the Dutch on Wednesday night, forcing back tears as he reminisced on his achievements. With watery eyes, Southgate said: “We all want to be loved, right? "When you’re doing something for your country and you’re a proud Englishman, when you don’t feel that back and when all you read is criticism, it’s hard.
"So to be able to celebrate the second final (after Euro 2020) is very, very special." Southgate also praised the travelling fans for attending every match and showing their support, adding: “If I hadn’t been on the grass, I’d have been watching, celebrating like they were. "We are kindred spirits in many ways but of course, I’m the one who has to pick a team.
So to be able to give them a night like tonight, it’s very special.” talkSPORT pundit Jason Cundy was full of praise for Southgate, particularly how he affected the game against the Netherlands.
