England legend Peter Shilton believes Gareth Southgate has “proven everyone wrong” with a pivotal decision made during his team’s semi-final clash against the Netherlands.
The Three Lions booked their place in the final last night with a dramatic late winner by Ollie Watkins.
The route to the final has not been an easy one for Southgate and co, with much criticism for the performances served up along the way.
One of the key criticisms has been Southgate’s substitutions, but Shilton told GB News that Southgate hit back at the naysayers last night with two game changing introductions.
Peter Shilton says Gareth Southgate has 'proven everyone wrong'
PA / GB NEWS
“I thought in the second half, we were a bit laboured and they were taking control of the game”, he said.
“Then of course, Gareth [Southgate] has been criticised for his substitutions but then he proved everyone wrong.
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“He brought on Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins who combined for what was a brilliant goal.”
With the game on a knife edge, Palmer slotted a ball through for Ollie Watkins to put Southgate’s side 2-1 up with mere minutes left to play.
The win set up a final against Spain - who have received plaudits throughout the tournament thanks to their impressive displays.
The England boss has quickly turned his attention to the final, telling reporters yesterday he is determined to achieve something with a team “that’s at the end of a cycle”.
Ollie Watkins scored the winning goal during Wednesday's semi-final gamePA“We’re giving people some amazing nights”, he said.
“I think we’ve given our supporters some of the best nights over the last 50 years, so I’m hugely proud of that.
“I’m delighted if everybody at home is feeling the way we are and the way the supporters in the stadium are feeling.
“But from our point of view, we’re not finished. We’ve got the greatest possible test to prepare for and we came here to try and win the tournament, and that’s still our aim.”
Peter Shilton joined Paul Coyte on GB News
GB NEWS
New Prime Minister Keir Starmer is among those to have congratulated the team, along with the Prince of Wales and King Charles.
The Prime Minister also suggested football was “coming home” following the win.
At an Oval Office meeting with US President Joe Biden, Sir Keir was asked if football was coming home, and said: “It looks like it.”
“It’s because of the Prime Minister,” Mr Biden replied.
It is understood William, who is president of the Football Association, is also likely to travel to Berlin for the final on Sunday.