Stuart Pearce backs England to go all the way at Euro 2020
Pearce believes the current England squad are better than the ‘96 team and can achieve Euros glory
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.England legend Stuart Pearce says Gareth Southgate’s team are capable of winning Euro 2020 and will at least reach the final.
The Three Lions will play Denmark in their semi-final on Wednesday after overcoming old rivals Germany 2-0 in the last 16 and demolishing Ukraine 4-0 in the quarter-finals.
Pearce has experience of major tournaments after featuring for England, most famously during Euro 96, and he said he believes the current squad are better than the one in place 25 years ago.
Pearce told The Sun: “They have the same fire and will to win we had back in ’96 — but this squad is stronger with even more world-class players.
“I’m sure we have enough to beat the Danes — and Italy or Spain in the final — but we should steel ourselves for two tight, tense and nerve-jangling games if we go all the way.
“People said I was passionate, but I see the same spirit in every single one of that squad and it will take a hell of a lot to stop them now at Wembley.”
The Euro 96 team infamously exited in the semi-finals after losing a penalty shootout to Germany, following a missed attempt by Gareth Southgate.
Pearce has congratulated his former teammate on his success in charge, praising his team selection in particular. Pearce also said he is confident England can win against Denmark in 90 minutes, but if it’s pushed to penalties he has no doubts around who will win.
“Gareth has incredible talent to choose from in this squad and will shuffle the pack to secure a win in normal time if possible,” Pearce said. “But his players will be well drilled and determined to cope with any situation – and if it goes to penalties, they’ll be ready.”
So far England have not conceded a goal at the tournament, becoming the first team in Euros history to achieve such a feat in their opening five matches.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments