Former Liverpool star Daniel Sturridge sent a classy message of support to England and Gareth Southgate after tonight’s penalty heartbreak. The Three Lions were beaten in a shootout against Italy in the final of Euro 2020. With the scores tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes, the match was decided from the spot following extra time. Despite Jordan Pickford saving two spot kicks, the final three England stars missed their efforts to seal victory for the Italians. Sturridge played 26 times for his country and scored eight goals. And after tonight’s dramatic defeat, he took to Twitter with some positive words for the current squad and manager.
Daniel Sturridge said: “The identity Gareth has given the team, the quality and character the players have shown. We’ve made huge progress. I think within the next 3 tournaments we will win one. I’m confident of that. Credit to the team and credit to Gareth. They’ll be back.”
Minutes earlier,
Daniel Sturridge posted: “Absolutely devastated 4 the players, me and the fans. This team has been incredible this tournament. Every single one of them. Don’t be tweeting about penalty misses and all that crap and blaming individuals. They brought the country together and made us all happy through COVID”.
Luke Shaw gave England the perfect start when he opened the scoring inside two minutes. But Leonardo Bonucci equalised with 67 minutes gone as Italy grew into the game – and went on to be crowned champions of Europe.