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Euro 2024: Southgate employing silence strategy, bans players

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Euro 2024: Southgate employing silence strategy, bans players

In a bold move to secure England’s success at Euro 2024, manager Gareth Southgate has imposed a ban on his players discussing penalties, aiming to safeguard their shootout strategies and keep the squad’s focus sharp.

This unconventional approach comes as the Three Lions prepare for the semi-finals, having triumphed over Switzerland in a tense penalty shootout where all five of England’s takers flawlessly converted their kicks.

Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford emerged as a hero, saving a critical penalty from Switzerland’s Manuel Akanji, further bolstering England’s confidence in high-pressure scenarios.

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Southgate’s meticulous preparation for penalty situations, including employing a psychologist, analysts, and rigorous practice sessions, has been instrumental in transforming England’s historically poor shootout record.

However, the latest tactic involves Southgate silencing any discussion of penalties among the players and the media. Key squad members, such as Jordan Pickford, Marc Guehi, and Ezri Konsa, have been instructed to steer clear of questions regarding penalties throughout the tournament.

This strategy aims to prevent penalties from becoming an overwhelming mental burden for the players, ensuring they remain calm and composed when it counts the most. By keeping shootout secrets under wraps, Southgate is also protecting the team’s tactical edge from opponents who might seek to exploit any revealed weaknesses.

Southgate’s decision to cloak penalty preparation in secrecy underscores his commitment to a psychological edge, building mental resilience within the squad. By removing the topic from public discourse, he allows players to focus on their overall game without the looming shadow of penalty shootouts.

This approach shows Gareth Southgate is employing a broader strategy towards winning the Euro 2024 and mental fortitude is one of such. His leadership has fostered a cohesive team spirit, where players are encouraged to trust in their preparation and each other, rather than fixating on the pressures of penalties.

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