Euro 2020 final: Southgate pays tribute to England fans ahead of Italy showdown

Gareth Southgate has offered heartfelt thanks to England fans for their support ahead of a first major tournament final appearance in 55 years.

The Three Lions have played five of their six games en route to the showpiece fixture of Euro 2020 in front of a partisan crowd at Wembley Stadium.

And they will contest a sixth at their home ground on Sunday when they take on Italy aiming to win a first piece of silverware since the 1966 World Cup.

Ahead of that showdown, Southgate has placed on his record his appreciation for the backing he and his team have received both from the stands and further afield.

He said: “I just wanted to take the time to say thank you to everybody for the incredible support we’ve received throughout this tournament. 

“We hope that we’ve represented you in the right way, we hope that you’ve enjoyed watching us play. 

“I’m very grateful to all of the players and in the incredible staff I’ve got with me that we’ve been able to get to our first final for 55 years, but of course we know now we’ve got to deliver for you. 

“We’ll be doing everything we can, your support and energy has given us a huge lift and I know it will on Sunday.”