Kyle Walker, the Manchester City right-back, has revealed that he only listens to his mother and England manager Gareth Southgate when it comes to assessing his performances for the national team. Ahead of the upcoming match against Denmark, Walker shared his thoughts on how players deal with social media opinions during Euro 2024. He emphasized that he personally avoids reading external feedback and instead focuses on the guidance provided by Southgate and his mother.
Walker expressed his belief that ignoring outside noise and concentrating on the advice of trusted individuals is crucial for players looking to elevate their performance. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and filtering out distractions in order to excel on the pitch. By prioritizing the opinions of those close to him, Walker aims to stay grounded and focused on his game.
In a similar vein, England manager Gareth Southgate admitted that he refrains from engaging with social media in order to maintain a sense of contentment. He acknowledged that while staying disconnected from online platforms may be limiting in terms of staying informed about global events, it contributes to his overall well-being during intense tournament periods. Southgate emphasized the need for players to shield themselves from external pressures and focus on their individual and collective objectives.
Reflecting on England’s previous match, Southgate praised his players for their resilience and composure under pressure. He noted the challenges faced by young athletes in high-stakes competitions and commended their ability to perform admirably despite the intense circumstances. Looking ahead to the rematch against Denmark, Southgate emphasized the need for continued improvement and a focused approach in order to secure a positive result.
Southgate encouraged his players to savor their victories and not take them for granted, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in the process of winning. He acknowledged that the pursuit of success can be all-consuming, but urged his squad to appreciate their achievements and remain present in their current challenges. As England navigates the group stage, Southgate underscored the significance of staying focused on the immediate task at hand without losing sight of the bigger picture.
Regarding player availability, Southgate provided an update on Luke Shaw’s recovery status, confirming that the Manchester United left-back is progressing as expected. While Shaw is not yet ready for match action, Southgate expressed optimism about his rehabilitation trajectory and indicated that the defender is on track for a return to play in the near future. The England manager praised Shaw’s commitment to his recovery process and expressed confidence in his eventual comeback.
In conclusion, the England national team is approaching the upcoming match against Denmark with a combination of determination, focus, and a commitment to improvement. By prioritizing internal feedback over external noise, maintaining a positive mindset, and recognizing the value of celebrating victories, the team under Southgate’s guidance is poised to navigate the challenges of Euro 2024 with resilience and unity.
