1…Respect the Manager. “Three grand down the drain, Gareth Southgate strikes again.” This chant, from a small group of England fans, was heard at the RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne and seen on social media after the draw with Slovenia. It reflects frustration at outlay to return on the trip. Some fans jeered Southgate as he walked over to applaud their support at the final whistle. A couple of empty glasses were launched his way. There is legitimate criticism to be made of Southgate in terms of decision-making, but he doesn’t deserve this reaction. He cares about England. Such chants and actions are wounding, and also anger the players, who like and respect Southgate. The majority of England supporters are brilliant out here, and can engage in grown-up debate. A handful lose self-control, overstep the mark, throw missiles and verbal barbs, and lose the argument.
© 2025 Henry Winter
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