BORIS Johnson tonight praised the England team for lifting the spirits of the nation with their “energy and tenacity” throughout Euro 2020, and said: “Bring it home!”
The PM said the Three Lions had “already made history” as they prepare to face Italy in the final after a string of historic victories at the tournament.
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Mr Johnson was among a string of famous public figures, including the Queen, to offer their support as the nation waits nervously for tomorrow’s crunch match at Wembley – the team’s first final in 55 years.
The Three Lions’ incredible run has captivated the entire country after a miserable 18 months of lockdown restrictions, with excitement reaching fever pitch after the team surged into the final with a 2-1 over Denmark on Wednesday.
Over 60,000 fans will have Wembley rocking tomorrow night as Harry Kane leads the Three Lions into their first tournament final since 1966.
LIFTED OUR SPIRITS
In a letter to the team ahead of tomorrow’s final, the PM wrote: “You have taken England into the final of a major international competition. For most people in this country, it is the first time this has happened in all their lives.
“You have forged a band of brothers whose energy and tenacity and teamwork – and sheer flair – seem to shine in everything you do.
“You have lifted the spirits of the whole country, and tomorrow we know you can lift that trophy too.
“We are not just hoping or praying. We believe in you, Gareth, and your incredible squad.
“On behalf of the entire nation, good luck, have a great game – and bring it home!”
It comes after No 10 Downing Street was decked out in St George’s flags ahead of the final.
The Queen also today paid tribute to the “spirit, commitment and pride” of the England football team in a good luck message ahead of the Euro 2020 final.
In a note to manager Gareth Southgate, the monarch sent her “good wishes” for the clash against Italy.
In her written message to the team, the Queen recalled presenting the Jules Rimet trophy to Bobby Moore almost six decades ago.
She said: “Fifty-five years ago I was fortunate to present the World Cup to Bobby Moore and saw what it meant to the players, management and support staff to reach and win the final of a major international football tournament.
“I want to send my congratulations and that of my family to you all on reaching the final of the European Championships, and send my good wishes for tomorrow with the hope that history will record not only your success but also the spirit, commitment and pride with which you have conducted yourselves.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer also sent his best wishes to the team.
He said: “On and off the field, you’ve shown the best of England during this tournament.
“You’ve been as fearless as the three lions on our crest. You’ve lit up this tournament.
“And in spite of those who tried to undermine you, you’ve used your platform to stand up for our shared values as a country.
“In doing so, you have become role models not just to a generation of young people, but to an entire nation.
“I want you to know that as you line up at Wembley today, the whole of England will be bursting with pride watching you.
“We still believe. Bring it home.”
In a press conference tonight, gaffer Gareth Southgate said the team’s sole focus was on “bringing the trophy home”.
He added: “We’re in a final and we’re here to win. Now we want to go and bring the trophy home.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
