Love of squad

SOUTHGATE'S FOCUS IS ON PLAYERS' NEEDS

- JEREMY CROSS

GARETH SOUTHGATE has kicked his critics into touch - and insisted all he cares about is his England team.

Southgate has seen his tactics and selection decisions pulled apart following the Three Lions' draw with Denmark last week.

He hauled off Trent AlexanderArnold before the hour, when it became clear the plan to pick him in midfield wasn't working.

And Southgate was also forced to hook captain Harry Kane, after he struggled to make an impact despite scoring the opening goal.

But despite being expected to drop the Liverpool star, Southgate believes he is better prepared to handle the flak following almost eight years in the job.

He could be forgiven for wanting to lock himself in a darkened room.

But quite the opposite, because he knows he has to remain upbeat in front of his players and lead by example.