Germany coach, Flick gives verdict on Southgate, rates England squad

Germany boss, Hansi Flick has described England manager, Gareth Southgate as one of the best coaches in the country’s history.

Flick also played down England’s recent struggles, labelling Southgate’s men as one of the best teams in the world.

Southgate, who took the Three Lions to the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020, received boos from travelling supporters at the San Siro last Friday night after losing 1-0 against Italy in the Nations League encounter.

Asked about Southgate’s struggles, Flick said at his pre-match press conference on Sunday ahead of Germany’s Nations League tie with England on Monday night at Wembley Stadium: “The Premier League is the best league in the world and the England squad is excellent too.

“Especially in the summer, after a long season, there was a phase when the team just wasn’t fresh anymore.

“If things don’t go well, coaches are quickly criticised. Despite this, Gareth Southgate is one of the most successful coaches in England’s history and they have a great team. We need a top performance [on Monday night] to survive.”

Flick added: “They [England] are one of the best teams in the world. For me, they are definitely one of the best teams.”