England manager Gareth Southgate has emphasized that the team’s success in the Euros cannot hinge solely on Jude Bellingham’s shoulders. Despite the high expectations for England to win the tournament, a shocking loss to Iceland at Wembley has dampened spirits. While Bellingham, who was rested after Real Madrid’s Champions League triumph, will undoubtedly boost the team, Southgate cautioned that the 20-year-old alone won’t be enough to secure the Euros victory.

Southgate acknowledged Bellingham’s exceptional mentality and predicted he would have a significant impact on the team. However, he stressed the importance of a collective effort, stating that relying on a single player is not a recipe for success. The manager also noted that the team has yet to field their full collective strength, with players still being evaluated and adjustments being made.

Following the Iceland defeat, Southgate made his expectations for defensive improvement clear to the players in the dressing room. Luke Shaw, who may not play against Serbia, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the need for better mentality, attitude, and performance. Shaw believes the loss could be a wake-up call for the team, underscoring the challenges ahead in Germany and the need for determination.

Gareth Southgate admitted that England cannot rely solely on Jude Bellingham to win the Euros

Southgate heaped praise on Bellingham and expects him to make a significant contribution

With England’s opening match just around the corner, Southgate and the team are focused on fine-tuning their performance. The manager’s message to the players underscores the importance of defensive improvement and a stronger collective mentality. As Shaw noted, the loss to Iceland served as a stark reminder that success in Germany won’t come easy, and the team must raise their level of determination and focus.

As England gears up for the Euros, all eyes will be on how they bounce back from the Iceland defeat. While Bellingham is undoubtedly a key asset, Southgate’s remarks highlight the need for a cohesive team effort. The manager’s candid assessment of the team’s performance and his expectations for improvement set the tone for what promises to be a challenging tournament.