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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Samuel Meade

Gary Lineker's heartfelt message to England team ahead of Euro 2020 final

Gary Lineker has penned an emotional message to England's players ahead of tonight's Euro 2020 final at Wembley.

The Three Lions are 90 minutes away from ending a 55-year wait for a major tournament success.

Lineker was part of the England team, led by Sir Bobby Robson, who reached the last four of the World Cup in 1990.

That is one of only three semi-finals England have reached since their triumph in 1966.

Gareth Southgate's young side have continued to grow throughout the Euros however and have an excellent chance of beating Italy in the final.

The country has been engrossed by the unique atmosphere and Lineker has referenced that in an emotional message.

Gary Lineker has been hugely complimentary about the current crop of England stars (BBC)

He said in The Players' Tribune: "Think about it. What unites us as a nation like football? Nothing. It is a kind of magic, really.

"That is the power of football. The power of England.

"And this team in particular — this group of 26 young lads and their manager — has taken it to another level, bringing so much pride, joy and togetherness to a nation that is so often stuck in division.

"In their brilliance on and off the field, this team represents the very best of England in its diversity, dignity and shining social conscience.

"To a man, they are thoughtful, empathetic and articulate. And they are changing what it means to be an England footballer.

"It’s incredible, really, especially when you consider how young they are — they're just kids! Though I can’t claim any part in their development, watching them I feel like a proud father."

He went on to add: "I’ve got no special advice to give you players ahead of tonight. You’ve made it further in a tournament than I ever did.

"No one needs to hype you up for this game. You know what this means and what you’ve got to do.

"You are the right players at the right time with the right man in charge.

Will England deliver in the final? Have your say in the comments below.

The Three Lions are 90 minutes away from glory (UEFA via Getty Images)

"All I want to say to you is that the country is really proud of you. You’ve given everything and you’ve stuck together.

"Now there is one more step. Just more of the same, please."

Phil Foden is Southgate's only doubt ahead of the showpiece event on Sunday night.

The Manchester City man is struggling with a foot problem that could curtail his tournament.

England have benefited from consistent selection during the knockout stages and Southgate is unlikely to veer too far from a winning formula.

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