Gareth Southgate: England boss urges side to end semi-final hoodoo

Gareth Southgate urges his England side to win against Denmark in their semi-final and reach their first final since 1966.England has fallen at the final hurdle in major tournaments four times since 1966, when they won the World Cup.Southgate believes that his team have learned from their humiliating defeat to Croatia in the World Cup semi-finals three years ago.Southgate: His team must use their experience against Denmark in Wednesday's semifinalThe England manager stated that they have already overcome many perceived barriers and hoodoos, and this will be the next challenge for them."I think the most interesting thing for us is that we won't feel completely satisfied if it's only a semi-final. But three years ago, even though there was huge disappointment, there was still a feeling that we had come a long distance."Now, we have replicated what was done there, but it won't be enough for the group to fulfill their needs. This is a positive sign."The other positive thing is that these young players (18, 19, 20, 21) are experiencing England in a positive way. They're seeing what it is like to wear an England shirt, have fun, win matches and build a positive relationship with their fans."That's crucial for the next generation. If we keep the relationship with our fans, we'll get more from their talent."The key difference in 2018 is the increase in expectation. Southgate admitted that their benchmark in Russia was to end England’s 12-year-old wait for a knockout win.The ex-defender has now won more knockouts than any England manager and will be looking for another in Wednesday’s semi-final, aided by a boisterous crowd of 60,000 plus.Southgate said, "It's great that we are coming back now," and he expects Bukayo Saka, a teenager who missed the Ukraine match due to a slight knock to return to training Monday."To travel and experience a different environment, preparation, and focus was definitely beneficial."But now, to be returning to Wembley was a great thing."1:26 Steve McClaren believes Southgate's leadership qualities as England manager were evident while they were at MiddlesbroughIt doesn't get any more comfortable than this. England's 4-0 victory over Ukraine was controlled and decisive. They will now face Denmark in the Euro 2020 semifinal at Wembley. Are all the stars aligning in Gareth Southgate’s favor? How did he manage to get rid of fear in England?Alice Piper joins Rob Dorsett and Adam Bate to discuss the win at Rome. Luke Shaw plays Jose Mourinho, Harry Kane is back to his best, and England keeps another clean sheet. All looks good, right?You can listen to your podcast provider here