Euro 2020 success is the boost England needs after the pandemic – but don’t underestimate Denmark, says Alan Shearer
Former England striker Alan Shearer says Euro 2020 success is the tonic the country needs after the Covid-19 pandemic.
England face Denmark in the semi-finals at Wembley on Wednesday amid growing optimism that they can win a first major trophy since 1966.
“The country would take off” if England won Euro 2020, Shearer told BBC Breakfast today.
“We’ve been in isolation for 17 or 18 months now. Our one hope was that this England team could give us a bit of happiness and something to smile and cheer about, and they’ve done that.
“Wednesday night will be a great atmosphere and so will the rest of the week, if the result goes the way we want it.”
England swept into the last four for the first time since Euro 96 with a 4-0 victory over Ukraine in Rome on Saturday.
The match saw Harry Kane continue his return to form with two goals, as Gareth Southgate’s team cut loose at last.
“We were all hopeful that we could go into the game and put in a performance and it really clicked all over the pitch,” Shearer added.
England must beware Denmark, says Shearer
Denmark have been the surprise package of the tournament, twice hitting four goals on their way to the semis.
They have also won admirers for their response to star man Christian Eriksen’s cardiac arrest in their opening match. Eriksen is now recovering.
“It’ll be a tough game, Denmark have got a lot to play for,” said Shearer, who was part of the England Euro 96 team.
“They are playing with a lot of heart and skill. They will be listening to all of the noise of the fans in England and they will want to put in their own performance so it won’t be straightforward.”