Was there a reason beyond bad sportsmanship?
Despite a disappointing loss, England made history last night, and for that, they should be proud. But this Euros has not been without its controversy, with laser pens, booing, and abuse hitting the headlines almost as much as the game itself. And, while receiving their silver medals, numerous England players were seen to remove them almost immediately.
In the first five minutes, Luke Shaw’s surprising goal had England hooked and ready for an explosive tournament to end over five decades of hurt. Leonardo Bonucci’s goal in the second half equalised the scoreboard, and for the remainder of the match, both Italy and England fought for a winner.
What is it with the @England players removing their runners up medals!? How disrespectful!
Be an example to youngsters and show some humility! #Euro2020Final pic.twitter.com/RO0wOzOGyN— Niall Williams 🏴 (@welshrower) July 11, 2021
After thirty minutes of extra time, the idea of penalties was becoming an increasingly possible outcome. Despite cracking goals from Harry Kane and Harry Maguire, Pickford was unable to defend shots from Domenico Berardi, Bonucci and Federico Bernardeschi. A nervous squad watched on as Saka missed from the spot, ending the Three Lions Euro 2020 campagin.
During the trophy presentation, as England were given silver medals, most of the team removed them before even exiting from the camera shot. Gareth Southgate led by example by holding onto his and if you were to watch the presentation in full, you would have seen that Jordan Henderson, Kalvin Phillips, Jordan Pickford, Raheem Sterling, Sam Johnstone, Tyrone Mings and Aaron Ramsdale were a part of the small group of England players who left their medals hanging around their necks.
England taking off their silver medals?? Nah this is just childish #EURO2020final pic.twitter.com/GWLyos5iOA
— katy ✿ 🇵🇸 (@wonderchanges) July 11, 2021
Henderson continues to be a moral victor:
https://twitter.com/MariusRovde/status/1414348280230674432
