Southgate wants 'next step' to glory

MANCHESTER, United Kingdom — England's quest to win a first major tournament since 1966 starts afresh on Thursday as the Three Lions' Euro 2024 qualifying campaign begins with a testing trip to champion Italy.

After taking time to consider his future following a World Cup quarterfinal exit to France in December, Gareth Southgate will remain in charge as England boss for a fourth attempt at glory.

Having reached a quarterfinal, semifinal and final in his last three major tournaments as manager, anything less than ending England's 58-year trophy drought in Germany next year will be seen as a disappointment — especially with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane at Southgate's disposal.

"These are the sorts of games where we have to show we can go to these places and win," said Southgate on the prospect of facing Italy in an intimidating atmosphere at Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in Naples. "That is the next step for us as a team."

England fell short on penalties against Italy in the Euro 2020 final and failed to beat Roberto Mancini's men in two Nations League clashes prior to the World Cup.

The Three Lions did not win a single game in their Nations League campaign but bounced back close to their best at the World Cup.

Southgate is wary of another drop in standards.

"That is the big challenge we have got. To go to a World Cup, everyone wanted to be there and the fight for places was immense, the hunger was there and it was clear. Now you have to start again," added Southgate.

"I know exactly where our most senior players are with that challenge — they are ready. The (Jordan) Hendersons, the Kanes, they set the tone for that sort of mentality that is going to be needed."

AFP