In an incredibly supportive statement, Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham highlighted his satisfaction with England’s achievements at the 2022 World Cup.
The Three Lions were eliminated by champions France on Saturday night, with goals from Aurelien Tchouameni and Olivier Giroud condemning Gareth Southgate’s team to a record eighth quarter-final defeat.
Football Association: England’s players may reflect on what might have been, with their performance here significantly better than their performance against Croatia in the 2018 World Cup semi-final.
They were more than a match for France, whose manager Didier Deschamps confessed his team was “a little fortunate” after losing two penalties. He had a fantastic opportunity to draw the game at 2-2 with only six minutes remaining.
Captain Harry Kane, though, could not score a second penalty from 12 yards out after sending one past club member Hugo Lloris.
Southgate stated immediately after the game that he would need time to review and reflect’ on England’s performances before deciding whether or not to continue as manager. Still, following the release of a statement from CEO Bullingham, it is clear that he has the support of English football’s governing body.
“Like all England supporters, we share the anguish of losing a quarter-final this morning, along with the coaches, players, and support crew,” the statement started.
“Throughout the competition, Gareth and Steve [Holland] prepared the squad incredibly well.” The players were determined to win the championship, and Harry Kane led them well. However, sports may have razor-thin margins, and on this particular day, against the reigning world champions, it was not to be.
“This is a dynamic young English side, and despite last night’s heartbreak, they should be quite pleased with their accomplishments in Qatar.”
“We are proud of Gareth, the players, the coaches, and the support crew, and we appreciate all of their efforts.”
France will face surprise package Morocco in the semi-finals after defeating England. The Atlas Lions upset the apple cart again in Saturday’s early encounter, defeating Portugal 1-0 after defeating Spain in the round of 16.
