‘I’m a bit fed up’ – Gareth Southgate says he’s ‘miserable so and so’ as he tells England they ‘must be better’ vs USA
GARETH SOUTHGATE has revealed he is not happy with the nature of England’s performance against Iran.
This is despite England recording their biggest ever win for a World Cup opener as they thrashed Iran 6-2.
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Southgate overtook Sir Alf Ramsey as the England boss with the most wins at major tournaments following the Iran victory but cast an unimpressed figure at full time.
He said: “I’m a bit fed up with the end of it really.
“To win by that margin, to play as we did for the majority of the game, I’ve got to be really happy.
“But we shouldn’t be conceding two goals at that stage and we’ll have to be right on our game against the (United) States. It’s a great start but we’re going to have to be better.”
Despite dominating proceedings the Three Lions allowed two goals to be put past them as Mehdi Taremi lashed home a goal after slipping behind Harry Maguire before adding a penalty in the final minute.
And former Middlesbrough manager Southgate warned his team they must improve when they face off against the USA on Friday.
Southgate added: “It’s a consequence of the scoreline a bit.
“We had 24 minutes of added time which is a long time to focus but we just lost concentration and when we play at a slower tempo we’re not anywhere near as effective.
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“Our attacking players look a threat, our defence in the first hour controlled the game and were patient. The midfield were excellent and our forwards looked a threat…
“I’m a miserable so and so. I should be more excited but I have to keep the team on the right track.”
There were a number of notable performances from England players including Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham.
However, Harry Kane and Harry Maguire have given Southgate injury scares after Kane was pictured limping with an ankle strap and Maguire fell ill.
England’s Friday opponent is in action against Wales this evening.
The Dragons will be participating in their first World Cup game for 64 years.
