James Maddison has issued a show of support to the England Euro 2024 squad, declaring immense pride despite the heart-wrenching defeat to Spain in the final in Berlin .
The Three Lions, who had a rocky start to the tournament, managed to claw their way to the much-anticipated final in Berlin, only to be narrowly defeated 2-1 by Spain with a late goal in the 86th minute from Mikel Oyarzabal.
Critics have been quick to take fire at the team and manager Gareth Southgate after England endured yet more heartbreak in a European Championship final. However, Maddison took to social media to stand by his team-mates after being left out in the cold for the Euros.
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On Instagram, he said: "So proud of that group of lads. Fell at the last hurdle but doesn't take away the amazing moments this group the country once again [love heart emoji]."
Despite being a key player for Tottenham last season, 27-year-old Maddison was among those cut from England's 33-man provisional squad. England's journey in the tournament was fraught with challenges, having secured only one victory in the group stage and nearly facing a humiliating departure in the round of 16 against Slovakia, saved in the nick of time by Jude Bellingham.
But, they still managed to make it to the final and were beaten by the best team in the tournament. However, just two days after the 2-1 defeat to Spain, Southgate, whose contract had been set to run until December 2024, has announced he has stepped down from the role of England manager.
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"As a proud Englishman, it has been the honor of my life to play for England and to manage England," Southgate said in a statement on Tuesday.
"It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all. But it’s time for change and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager."
Just who replaces Southgate now is anyone's guess. The two favourites however are likely to be Graham Potter and Newcastle boss Eddie Howe, although it is unclear whether the latter would want to ditch his job on Tyneside to take up the England reins from Southgate.
Liverpool.com says: "It's great to see England internationals who weren't part of the Euro 2024 squad show support for those who were. It speaks to the togetherness Southgate introduced and developed during his time as England boss.
"While tactically at times Southgate was found wanting, there can be no dispute that he has laid strong foundations for his successor."
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