England manager Gareth Southgate is confident his team is in a positive mental state heading into their Euro 2024 quarter-final clash against Switzerland on Saturday, July 6.
Southgate, speaking ahead of the match at Düsseldorf Arena (kick-off 16:00 GMT), highlighted a newfound fluidity in training and a growing belief within the squad. “The longer the players are here, the more belief they have,” he stated. “They’re less affected by outside noise and can see the opportunity that lies ahead.”
This pivotal encounter comes off the back of England’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Slovakia in the round of 16, a game that went to extra time. For Southgate, the upcoming match holds additional significance as it marks his 100th game in charge of the Three Lions.
While acknowledging the achievement, Southgate downplayed its importance: “I’m very proud, but it’s the least important stat of the week.” Appointed in November 2016 after Sam Allardyce’s departure, he will join an elite group alongside Walter Winterbottom (139 games) and Sir Alf Ramsey (113 games) as the only England managers to reach 100 games. Notably, Southgate is the first manager to achieve this feat since Sir Alf Ramsey’s milestone in 1972 (a 1-0 win over Wales).
Southgate boasts a respectable win percentage of 60.6%, placing him fourth in England manager records. However, it’s worth noting that Glenn Hoddle (60.7% in 28 games) and Fabio Capello (66.7% in 42 games) have slightly higher win percentages. Sir Alf Ramsey, with 61.1% from his 113 games, sits second.
The England manager also holds the record for most games in charge during major tournaments (23), surpassing legends like Sir Bobby Robson (15), Sven-Goran Eriksson (14), and Walter Winterbottom (14). Only Sir Alf Ramsey boasts a higher win percentage in major tournaments (66.7% from 12 games).
With a positive atmosphere and a historic milestone within reach, England will be looking to overcome Switzerland and secure a place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.