Gareth Southgate, the boss of England, aims for a “vital” triumph against Ukraine, a team with a strong sense of pride.

England’s head coach Gareth Southgate expressed heartfelt sympathy for Ukraine ahead of Sunday’s crucial Euro 2020 qualifier at Wembley. The match marks Ukraine’s first in this qualification campaign, and comes amidst war and uncertainty following Russia’s invasion of the country. Nevertheless, England is fully focused on winning the game, having secured a 2-1 win against Italy earlier in the week. Southgate admitted that Ukraine is a very proud group of players, but England is determined to take a major step towards the finals with a victory.

England’s head coach is hopeful that a victory against Ukraine and North Macedonia, and Malta in June, will almost secure the team’s progress to the finals of the Euro 2020. Despite Ukraine’s unpredictable background, England is expected to come out on top. The match kicks off with England’s depleted squad as Marcus Rashford, Mason Mount, Nick Pope had withdrawn from the initial selection. Reece James pulled out of the squad for an assessment on what the Football Association called an “ongoing issue,” while Luke Shaw is suspended following his two yellow cards in Italy. Brentford striker Ivan Toney, the only uncapped member of the group, will be hoping for a memorable moment of his own against Ukraine as he looks to make his debut. Southgate is positive that England has enough depth to get through the game and win, despite concerns over midfielders Jordan Henderson, Jude Bellingham, and Kalvin Phillips.

England’s skipper, Harry Kane, who scored his 54th international goal in Italy to become England’s all-time leading scorer, will receive a special presentation before the match.