Gareth Southgate has reserved special mention for Sheffield United as he prepares his England squad for the upcoming Euro2020 tournament, which kicks off in two days’ time.
Gareth Southgate said: “What is sometimes forgotten is just how much it means to the players. Players are fans too, after all. That’s how it starts. It starts with kids sitting in front of TVs, with wall charts and heroes. Undoubtedly, we’re in a different era now, where footballers aren’t as accessible to fans as they once were. They don’t ride the same bus home from games, or meet in the pub for a pint and a post-match analysis. But, despite all the changes in modern football, what cannot be questioned about the current generation of England players is their pride in representing this country. This idea that some players don’t know what it means to play for England — or don’t care — has become something of a false narrative. You don’t need to dig deep to realise that. Don’t forget, many of our lads started out at Football League clubs like Barnsley, MK Dons and Sheffield United. Their backgrounds are humble. For them to make it to this point as one of the chosen few in England’s history … well, it simply doesn’t happen without pride. This is a special group. Humble, proud and liberated in being their true selves.”
After loan spells at Stockport, Grimsby and Shrewsbury, a two-year stint at Bramall Lane propelled Henderson into the Manchester United first team picture, while Conor Coady’s loan move to United under Nigel Clough set him up for the career he has enjoyed since.
