Jose Mourinho says England can win the Euro 2020, which begins across the continent from June 11. England haven’t won a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup.
In an interview with The Times, London, Mourinho was insightful, candid and to the point.
“I believe England can win it. The feeling is that the group is friendly. They will accept being the first choice, second choice. When you are in the national team, if your job is to carry the water bottles, carry the water bottles and be happy to do it. They have a good group.
“I think what they need is us. When I say us, I am putting myself on the side of the media and public opinion. It’s the club of everyone, that’s what I used to call the national team, so let’s support the guys and see if England and Portugal can come to Wembley.”
The final is slated for July 11 at Wembley.
Eye on Mount
The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur manager heaped praise on Champions League winner Mason Mount. He credited former Chelsea coach Frank Lampard for the growth of the youngster as an important member of Chelsea as well as England.
“He has to thank Frank because even with results not being wonderful he was always keeping faith in that kid. He gave him incredible conditions to develop. Mount is an attack-minded player, a creative player, but he has the tactical discipline. Mount is a team player. We see him now with (Thomas) Tuchel coming from the sides, when with Frank he was more of a No. 10.”
The Portuguese also feels that Mount and Phil Foden (of Manchester City) can play in the same XI. “You look at what Mount and Foden are doing. When you are ready to play a Champions League final you are ready to play any match on this planet. Quality has nothing to do with age and experience. Age can be a contradiction.”
Main rivals
Talking about England’s main rivals, he said: “France could make a France A team, B team and C team because they have an incredible number of top players. They are the world champions. They have to win it. If not, it is an unsuccessful Euro. Italy, I think, will be in the top four. Belgium also have a lot of creation. Portugal are going to fight to keep the crown but it’s a difficult group. Also Germany. They are always a team to fear.”
