We'll have to exceptional to beat Spain

GARETH Southgate says England must be 'exceptional' in and out of possession if their first final on foreign soil is to end in Euro 2024 glory against team of the tournament Spain.

- SIMON PEACH

A summer that began with unconvincing displays, fan discontent and widespread criticism will end with a shot at history in Sunday's Berlin showpiece at the Olympiastadion.

England secured a final showdown against Spain thanks to super sub Ollie Watkins' stunning strike at the death against Netherlands, sealing a 2-1 win and sparking bedlam across the land.

This is the first time an English men's team has made it to a major final overseas and a second successive continental final for a side that lost on penalties to Italy at the end of the last edition.

Spain are sure to pose an almighty challenge and Southgate knows England will have to be at their absolute best against an in-form side who have had an extra day to prepare if they are to join the 1966 World Cup team in immortality.

Asked if facing offensive, possession-focused teams suits England better than defensive outfits, the manager said with a smile: "Well, we have to get the ball off them first'.

"It's not as simple as us having the ball and making them run. I mean, they press very, very well, so we're going to have to be exceptional with the ball, and we're going to have to be exceptional without it.