Gareth Southgate took time out of his tournament build-up to send a warm message to Alastair Campbell yesterday thanking him for his support.
The England manager is readying his team for the Euro 2020 final on Sunday, but thanked the writer and broadcaster for his article in i congratulating him on his success and praising his leadership.
Mr Campbell, who often sees Mr Southgate at Burnley matches in the Premier League, said he has nothing but respect for the former England and Aston Villa defender.
“I have come to know Gareth quite well,” Mr Campbell told i.
“He made the mistake of reading and liking my book a few years ago, and he always takes the time to talk when I see him at games.
“I have sent him the odd message throughout the tournament, and he read my piece.
“He told me it means a lot to him that people are recognising what he’s doing, what he and the team are trying to do and how they’re doing it.”
Campbell said he sent his piece as a way of saying to him that he’s doing an amazing job – not only in leading England to the final, but in changing the culture in football and instilling a clear set of principles in his players.
“I think he appreciated the sentiment,” Campbell added.
“This group of players represent real values and I think Southgate is a really genuine, honest man.
“It means so much to him for people to acknowledge the hard work his team puts in. He knows what it’s like to lose.
“With Southgate, what you see on the TV is what he’s actually like. He has time for everyone.
“It’s the same with the players. There’s no triumphalism – there’s a respect for opponents and a commitment.”
England stars such as Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling, and Jordan Henderson have become known for their work beyond football, fighting the likes of food poverty, racism, and homophobia.
Mr Southgate didn’t comment on Mr Campbell’s political comments – the England boss stays apolitical in the public eye – but he does grant his young players licence to speak out on issues that matter.
“He’s sort of given them permission to do more than play football,” Mr Campbell told i.
“They’re all on the same journey and there’s pride all through the team. Their tone is similar to his. It’s a culture of respect.”
Mr Campbell reiterated his earlier point to say the Prime Minister Boris Johnson could “learn” from Southgate’s leadership.
“The [Priti] Patels and [Boris] Johnsons of this world think white working-class English voters don’t like to see players take the knee and don’t speak out when players are booed.
“And then they put white England shirts over their suits. I hate the hypocrisy.
“Wearing an England top over a shirt and tie is a crime against humanity.”
from Football – inews.co.uk https://ift.tt/3yxyEWK
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