ENGLAND fans were out in full force this evening as they hit the town on the eve of the country’s biggest football game in 55 years.
Revellers took to the streets -packing pubs and bars – as they sang and chanted well into the night ahead of the Euro 2020 final.
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Supporters were snapped decked in their England gear as the atmosphere builds ahead of the historic match.
For most, this is their first ever experience of England in a major final – the last being in 1966 – and many chose to celebrate the unique event in some style.
Beers flowed and spirits were high as people gathered in their droves to embrace the occasion.
In the build up to the game, Prince William simply put “I can’t believe this is actually happening” as he encapsulated the joy that the team has brought to people all over the country.
It’s been a long wait for any hardened England fan – one filled with pain and suffering – but this time fans feel that that could all change.
Opponents Italy, however, will provide a stern test and many of their fans also made their presence known as they arrived on the streets of the capital.
But while England fans drank into night, the players were having a much more relaxed evening at the Grove Hotel in Hertford as they stand on the cusp of greatness.
Supporters greeted the players upon their arrival with a huge cheer and also lined the streets near St George’s Park as the team left the training centre.
Captain Harry Kane waved to his adoring fans, as many hope he’ll be the man lifting the coveted trophy come Sunday evening.
Speaking at a press conference alongside the skipper on Saturday night at the hotel, manager Gareth Southgate said his focus was on “bringing the trophy home”, adding: “We’re here to win.”
The Three Lions had also received a royal seal of approval from the Queen who, in a open letter, praised their spirit and commitment.
But Southgate said it was all about what happens at Wembley on Sunday.
The England manager also called on the huge crowd not to disrespect the Italian national anthem.
“It’s important our fans always respect the opposition,” he said.
“We know that when we play abroad and fans boo our anthem it inspires them more. I don’t think it will help the team.
The nation will have a long day waiting for the 8pm kick-off, but Southgate insisted it will be business as usual.
“It’s a normal matchday. All of our preparations, especially for these knockout games, have been the same – you have to keep that consistency,” he said.
Wembley itself is set to host almost 70,000 fans which will erupt into a cauldron of noise for the match at 8pm.
Southgate’s England team has been hailed for its awareness of social issues which has seen squad members saluted for taking the knee against racism, making a stand on donating to the NHS, and taking the fight for free school meals to Downing Street.
But for all their plaudits off the field, tomorrow’s occasion on it will determine whether they leave a lasting legacy.
Come on lads, bring it home!
