"You are national heroes": Greater Manchester’s children show outpouring of love for England football team

Children from across Greater Manchester have been sending letters and messages of support to the England football team following their defeat to Italy on Sunday night.

England were beaten on penalties, after three players - Rashford, Sancho, and Saka - missed their shots. They have since been subjected to horrific racial abuse online.

But the city’s children have shown that Manchester only has love for the England team with these heartwarming tributes.

“I think you’re fabulous” - Pearle, age 9

Pearle is grateful that she got to stay up late (None)

Nine year-old Pearle wrote to Rashford, Saka, and Sancho, telling them to hold their heads up high. "My mama always says to me that bullies never win" - we couldn't agree more.

“You are a good footballer and you are very kind” - Darcey, age 6

Darcey wrote this lovely, colourful letter, complete with stickers, to Rashford reminding him that we all love him.

“You are national heroes” - Franco, age 10

Franco says he'll never forget these Euros thanks to this "brilliant" team (None)

Ten year-old Franco's dad said he was "very proud of him" for writing this heartwarming letter.

“It’s okay you missed your penalty, you had a go and tried your best” - George, age 8

George hopes that Rashford is okay (None)

George wrote this letter to tell Rashford that he is very grateful for everything the team has done during Euro 2020 - aren't we all!

“You are amazing” - Leon, age 6

Six year-old Leon drew this wonderful picture and thanked Rashford for his charity work, giving children free school meals.

“It doesn’t really matter if we make it or not…” - Years 5 & 6, St. Wilfrid’s Primary School, Northenden

These classes from St Wilfrid's Primary School in Northenden got together to sing a special tribute for the England team.

“You’ve brought the country together and we’ve all had fun” - Lennon, age 9

Lennon wants to thank Rashford for his work providing free school meals (None)

Lennon's tribute is part of the huge wall of love that has formed around Rashford's mural in Withington.

“I admire you, and so should the rest of the world” - Alfie, age 11

Alfie reminds the team that second place is great (None)

Alfie's letter, which has been seen by Rashford himself, is a wonderful reminder of all that Rashford has achieved. He says that Rashford's has helped him deal with his social anxiety.

"Don't cry, you are a star" - Marni, age 5

The letters were delivered to Rashford's mural in Withington yesterday (None)

The children from St Ambrose Primary School in Chorlton had some special messages to send Marcus Rashford.

...and let’s hope the postman can make sure these are delivered safely!

Letters addressed to Sancho, Saka, and Rashford (None)