Southgate urges England supporters not to boo Italian anthem

England manager Gareth Southgate said the team’s fans can try to intimidate Italy, but they must remain respectful and not boo their national anthem before the European Championship final , Sunday at Wembley Stadium.

Some of the English fans booed the Danish national anthem ahead of their meeting in the semi-finals. Boos were also heard when the German anthem was played at Wembley when England beat Joachim Low’s side in the round of 16.

England fans celebrate their first grand final in 55 years on the edge of Wembley

Earlier in the week, UEFA fined the England Football Association 30,000 euros ($ 35,619) after a laser pointer was aimed at Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.

« It’s important that our fans always respect the opponent and we know that in fact when we play abroad and the fans boo our anthem, it probably inspires us even more, so I don’t think that will help them. ‘teamSouthgate told reporters on Saturday. Before adding: « I think we can intimidate the team with boos during the game, but it’s different for the anthem. I think we have to be respectful.« 

Former England international Gary Lineker made a similar request to fans across the country last week. « If you’re lucky enough to get a ticket to the final, please don’t boo the Italian anthemLineker tweeted Thursday. « À / It’s an absolute hymn worth listening to. B / It’s very rude, disrespectful and without any class.« 

England haven’t won a major tournament since their lone 1966 World Cup victory and the country is eager to end that wait on Sunday.