I agree that MonkeyPuzzle is being overly harsh

But I don't entirely agree that Southgate has overachieved.

I think you're right that English media has overhyped our team over the years, but in this case, I would say the hype is warranted. I can't remember a better squad, certainly from an attacking perspective. Not saying we should win it, but we certainly have a realistic chance. I didn't really feel that way in 2021.

The performances in 2018 and 2021 were, for me, not over achievement. We didn't win any game that we wouldn't expect to win. But, that's not to say it wasn't an achievement, clearly we've seen plenty of managers of England and other sides, not achieve the same when faced with that opportunity.

I think he's delivered team spirit and really consistently strong performances, but how his reign is remembered is likely to be defined by this tournament:

1. We don't do well (exit in QF or Semi to opposition you'd expect us to beat) - Good job but didn't have what was needed to take us to the next level with a squad capable of doing it

2. Get to the Semi and lose to strong opposition, or lose in the final - a reign of nearly moments / what could have been, but the best we've had in decades

3. Win it - legend status.

Posted By: SimonOTBC, Jun 14, 11:00:01