Gareth Southgate has told England fans to intimidate Italy in Sunday’s Euro 2020 Final – but pleaded with them not to boo their opponents’ national anthem.
Southgate wants Italy to be greeted by a daunting atmosphere at Wembley as the Three Lions aim to win their first trophy in 55 years.
But he has warned that booing the anthem – as has been the case throughout the tournament – may only inspire Roberto Mancini’s team.
Southgate said: “It is important that our fans always respect the opposition and we know that in actual fact when we play abroad and fans boo our anthem it probably inspires us even more, so I don’t think it will help the team.
“I think we can intimidate the team with the booing during the game, but it’s different for the anthem. I think we should be respectful.”
England are in their first final since winning the World Cup in 1966. And while Southgate’s team have already ensured their place in history, he is adamant that he wants more.
