Dear England
He may be Palace but I have long been impressed with how Gareth Southgate conducts himself. He is clearly thoughtful, principled and passionate.
This piece he wrote entitled ‘Dear England’ in the lead up the start of this weekend’s Euro’s is quite beautiful. Stirring and emotive words that should have every English person’s hair stand up on the back of their neck whilst nodding in agreement. Southgate’s articulate piece is modern day patriotism at it’s best.
I’m also absolutely sure some will think it is drivel. Well, more fool them and their bigotry.
I too rushed home from school on that afternoon in 1982 to see Bryan Robson head us in front against France in the first minute. And I too will stand tall on Sunday when the first blast of the national anthem sounds and will cheer on every England shirt, whoever is wearing it, just like I have always with Charlton.
Chicago Addick 
Having seen last Sunday’s game where Ward Prowse was totally outstanding and then wasn’t picked for the last place in the squad I am not a fan of Southgate. Henderson was very stale and will need several games to achieve match fitness. Maguire is not fit enough to play in the first game and maybe more. I am afraid we should be ready for disappointment. I like a flutter but won’t be wasting money backing England.
rierti
Well said 2000 per cent agree with you.
Bigotry ! ?😯 for not liking a letter? Harsh
More the principles behind it.
I’m afraid his claim that the new breed of England internationals ‘care’ just like their predecessors rings hollow.
Most of them care more about their latest hairstyle or their favourite ‘woke’ subject.
Playing for England is just another way to earn money to most of them.
I believe that Southgate is a thoroughly decent man too. From what i see the players appear to enjoy the atmosphere he has created in the squad, and that matters. Football wise there’s a bit of a problem. The two warm up games and the two games before that were pretty hard to watch. In short i don’t fancy our chances much, but Gareth Southgate? If i bumped into him i’d shake his hand and wish him well.