The biggest wave of criticism should be experienced by head coach Gareth Southgate, in whose direction the most impatient English fans threw empty beer glasses in the game against Slovenia. “I’m not going to run away from anything. The main thing is that our supporters are with us,” Southgate said after the game. England players have also been booed by fans, but the manager would rather take all the negativity his way. “I understand the sentiment towards me, but it’s better that it’s directed towards me and not the players. At the same time, such pressure creates a very unusual environment in which to work. I haven’t seen another team get out of the group and get this kind of treatment. I understand people’s emotions, but I am happy how the footballers were able to work in such conditions.”
