Commiserations to the English boys after tonight’s penalty defeat to Italy - but undoubtedly every single one of the players involved has done the nation proud. Football can be cruel but it has been an amazing month of football nonetheless, uniting the nation after the turmoil thrown at us by the pandemic. To get this far shows such brilliant progress, and can only fill the entire country with an immense sense of pride and optimism for the future.
Luke Shaw. Phenomenal. He has proven during this tournament exactly why he deserves to be placed within an elite category of player, capping off a stellar campaign by joining an exclusive list of England players to score in major international finals. After almost having his career cut short with such a horrific injury at the start of his United career, to see him thriving at the pinnacle of football is just wonderful.
Harry Maguire. His brilliant penalty under pressure last night epitomised his unbelievable mentality. Stepping back into the side after his late-season knock, he reintegrated perfectly alongside John Stones. With each and every performance, he presented exactly why he is one of the best centre backs around. I don't want to hear his price tag mentioned ever again.
Marcus and Jadon. Football can hurt. It is immense credit to the pair's bravery that they stepped up to take penalties under such pressure, but unfortunately it wasn’t to be last night. It’s ultimately a team effort, and having the guts to step up deserves immense recognition.
Finally, absolutely putting club rivalries aside, I have to mention that Bukayo Saka was a credit to the country throughout the tournament at such a tender age. Emphasised by his desire to take a penalty, his character was nothing short of incredible throughout. The boy deserves nothing but the utmost support no matter your allegiances, because he is an excellent human being and football player. Abuse is never the answer.
Amongst the pain of last night, as I mentioned, the togetherness created by football over the past month has to be acknowledged. Following the disarray created by the pandemic, the Euros have provided a sense of normality and an absolute breath of fresh air. This young squad have done an unbelievable job, with sensational conduct on and off the pitch. They deserve the appreciation of the entire nation.
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