Southgate praised Šilhavy, then held the out-of-form Kane

England will close out their Euro group stage journey with a match against the Czech Republic. It is under pressure as its fans are unhappy after the draw with the Scots. What did Gareth Southgate say at the press conference?

Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell were due to attend the conference alongside Southgate. However, both had to be quarantined as they met their Chelsea teammate Billy Gilmour after the game against the Scots. And it was Gilmour who tested positive earlier in the week. But their meeting is not the reason, according to Southgate.

“It probably didn’t even matter that they met him on the pitch. We’ve had cases in the Premier League where an encounter on the pitch has not been assessed as a risk. We have no further information yet,” the England coach said at a news conference.

After the draw with Scotland, England will want to reassure their fans with a win over the Czech Republic. In the event of a draw or a loss, they cannot finish first, but on the other hand they will avoid finishing third in a strong Group F.

“It will be different against the Czech Republic than against Scotland. We respect Tuesday’s opponent very much, their coach is working well. The Czechs are dangerous, we have to prepare well for them.”

Harry Kane hasn’t been doing well at the tournament so far. The top scorer of this year’s Premier League hasn’t made a single appearance at the European Championships and his performance hasn’t been ideal either.

“Calvert-Lewin is a great playmaker, he helped us a lot in the autumn. So did Rashford. But they both understand their roles and know well who our top nine is. You’ll see Harry show that against the Czechs and his presence will have a hugely positive effect on the others.”

Jordan Henderson and Harry Maguire, the mainstays of the team, did not play in the opening two games. However, they are slowly returning and should be ready for the playoffs.

“They missed a long time due to injury, but they are looking good and will be available for the game. We’re glad they’re doing better. They want to play, that’s for sure. I believe they will still hit this tournament.”

Source: England football