They may not be progressing any further in this year’s World Cup, but the England squad has still received a wave of support following their loss against France.
On Saturday night, England lost out 2-1 to France in Qatar, costing the Three Lions their spot in the football tournament.
Still, despite the result, the team has still been lauded by a number of prolific supporters.
Among them was former captain Wayne Rooney, who wrote on Twitter: “Absolutely gutted for the lads but proud of the way they’ve played this tournament and they should be proud.”
Giving a specific shout-out to captain Harry Kane, Rooney addeD: “Congratulations to [Harry] on equalling the record, he’ll be on his own soon and couldn’t think of anyone better to take over. Keep your head up Harry.”
Similarly, Gary Lineker wrote: “Heartbreaking once again, but no shame in losing to an excellent French team and congratulations to them. There was so little to choose between the two sides.
“This fine young England team gave their all and will only get better. Their time will come.”
David Beckham – who has come under fire for accepting an ambassadorship role with Qatar during this year’s World Cup – said on Instagram: “Our boys will continue to grow.
“It’s always the worst feeling waking up after being knocked out of a tournament but our players, Gareth [Southgate, England manager], the staff and all our fans can be proud of this team.
“It takes a true leader to step up in these moments and that’s what our captain did , the next time it will be a different ending. We walk away with our heads held high.”
Prince William – who is the president of England’s Football Association – also shared his commiserations with the squad, tweeting: “Gareth, Harry and the whole England squad and staff, gutted for all of you.
“You put so much into this tournament and we are all so proud of you. Heads held high and on to the next one!”
Prime minister Rishi Sunak tweeted after the result: “Harry and the team gave it everything but it wasn’t to be. They can hold their heads high tonight.
“Best of luck to France in the next round.”
A host of other former footballers and public figures have also shown their support to Harry Kane and the England squad since the result on Saturday night:
The 2022 World Cup has been met with much controversy over the decision to hold the tournament in Qatar due to the country’s track record with human rights, particularly with regard to migrant workers, women and the LGBTQ+ community.
Homosexuality is illegal in the Middle Eastern country, and could lead to seven years in prison, with sexual activity between men potentially resulting in the death penalty
Reports have also claimed that thousands of migrant workers died in Qatar in the lead-up to this year’s World Cup.